Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, has long been considered a grown up issue, with an increased prevalence the older people get. However, with an increasing number of children now suffering from hypertension, a great deal of importance is being paid to this issue. Some studies indicate that up to 6% of teenagers and 1% of children below the age of 12 suffer from this problem. If a child’s blood pressure exceeds that of 95% of others in his age group it is considered to be hypertension. To identify the cause of hypertension in children is becoming a significant concern.

It’s well known that U.S. citizens on the whole are growing more overweight. That this situation is not confined to adults and can affect even children is a factor that is sometimes ignored. One-third of the child population of this nation belong in the obese category, which is a highly disturbing statistic. And this is the primary cause of hypertension in children.

There are ongoing studies on the link between overweight and high blood pressure, but we certainly know without doubt that such a link exists both in kids and in grownups. And this is the one factor that can be easily controlled without the need for any medical intervention. If kids are encouraged to be outside more often, the natural energy they’ve got will make them engage in physical activities that will burn additional calories. This will go far in eliminating a key cause of hypertension in kids.

Absence of physical activity or exercise is not always the sole reason for being overweight, however. Genetics is one of the reasons for obesity and the resulting hypertension in children. Children of parents affected with illnesses such as obesity or diabetes should be tested for the presence of any such genetic or hormonal disorders and should be treated immediately.

Another reason for obesity and a major cause of hypertension in children is bad food habits. Children are drawn towards junk food and bad eating habits. Apart from a natural predisposition for fast food, locations serving this type of food are typically common teen hangouts. Once in the premises, their consumption of this unhealthy food tends to rise dramatically.

The causes of hypertension in children can also include a number of medical conditions that aren’t always obvious. These include sleep apnea, even in mild forms, lupus, glandular disorders, and kidney problems. Also, psychological problems can cause children to eat too much. If a child is found to be suffering from hypertension, it is best to consult a doctor, even if obesity seems to be the obvious cause. There could be underlying factors that may require treatment along with the elimination of the obesity problem.

High blood pressure is a serious problem, particularly forms such as high blood pressure during pregnancy. It’s important that you do whatever you can towards effective high blood pressure control.

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