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Hypertension in Kids and Teenagers

As per the CDC, around 47% of the people in the United States have hypertension. Hypertension refers to high blood pressure and is a common illness in adults. People usually think it’s only adults who usually have this condition. However, these days, the illness has become fairly common in teens and young children as well.

Let’s take a look at the types, symptoms, diagnoses, and causes of hypertension in teenagers and young children.

A machine to monitor blood pressure

Types of Hypertension

Hypertension is classified into two groups:

Primary Hypertension

Primary hypertension is also called essential hypertension and is caused by having a high salt intake on regular basis, excessive consumption of alcohol, being obese, or having a sedentary lifestyle.

Secondary Hypertension

Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure caused by another medical condition, for example, renal disease, cardiovascular diseases, hormonal imbalances, etc. This type of hypertension is more commonly found in young children and teenagers because of some common illnesses children and teens have, like hypothyroidism, hyperaldosteronism, renovascular diseases, renal insufficiency, etc.

Symptoms of Hypertension

Hypertension often presents no symptoms initially, but an onset of symptoms indicates that the blood pressure is high. The symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nose bleeding
  • Fluttering
  • Sweating
  • Nausea

The appearance of any of these symptoms in a child requires immediate medical attention and consultation from a doctor.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose hypertension in adults and kids both when their systolic blood pressure equals or exceeds 140 or their diastolic pressure equals or exceeds 90. Systolic blood pressure is most commonly found in young children and teenagers.

The risk of a diagnosis of hypertension depends on family history and personal medical history as well.

A doctor performing a medical check-up on a child

Tests for Diagnosis of Hypertension

There are several tests performed with several measurements by medical professionals before hypertension can be diagnosed. These tests include:

  • Blood tests
  • ECG
  • Urine tests

The results of these tests along with regularly monitoring blood pressure allow doctors to diagnose hypertension.

If you or your child has any of the risk factors or symptoms of hypertension, consult a doctor immediately. If you can’t visit a doctor, speak to an online doctor for high blood pressure!

TelMDCare has doctors that offer hypertension treatment online. We also have online doctors for diabetes, asthma, hyperthyroidism, and more. Get in touch with us now to book an appointment for more information regarding our services.