High blood pressure, or hypertension, at one time was believed to be strictly associated with adults, with the possibility of contracting it growing larger with age. 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 is a well know fact that Americans, as a nation, are becoming increasingly overweight. That this situation is not confined to adults and can affect even children is a factor that is sometimes ignored. A startling 33% of children in this country are thought to be overweight to some extent. This is the main reason for childhood hypertension.
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. Without the need for any medical intervention, this is the one factor that can be easily managed. If children are encouraged to spend more time outdoors, their natural energy will cause them to indulge in physical activity that will burn up the extra calories. This will go far in eliminating a key cause of hypertension in kids.
But obesity is not always caused by lack of exercise. A reason for obesity and the consequent cause of hypertension in children can be genetic. If the parents have diabetes or excess weight, then children should be examined to see if they have glandular or genetic problems that can be treated with drugs.
High blood pressure in kids is often caused by poor dietary habits. Unhealthy ways of eating and junk food are very appealing to kids. Foods that contribute to high blood pressure in kids are typically fast foods, and teenagers like to congregate in these places. Once in the premises, their consumption of this unhealthy food tends to rise dramatically.
There are various medical conditions which are hard to discern which could also be a cause of childhood hypertension. They include sleep apnea, even mild forms, kidney issues, glandular issues, and lupus. Also, psychological problems can cause children to eat too much. If a child has hypertension, it's essential to talk to a physician, even if the obvious cause appears to be obesity. There could be underlying factors that may require treatment along with the elimination of the obesity problem. - 32389
It is a well know fact that Americans, as a nation, are becoming increasingly overweight. That this situation is not confined to adults and can affect even children is a factor that is sometimes ignored. A startling 33% of children in this country are thought to be overweight to some extent. This is the main reason for childhood hypertension.
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. Without the need for any medical intervention, this is the one factor that can be easily managed. If children are encouraged to spend more time outdoors, their natural energy will cause them to indulge in physical activity that will burn up the extra calories. This will go far in eliminating a key cause of hypertension in kids.
But obesity is not always caused by lack of exercise. A reason for obesity and the consequent cause of hypertension in children can be genetic. If the parents have diabetes or excess weight, then children should be examined to see if they have glandular or genetic problems that can be treated with drugs.
High blood pressure in kids is often caused by poor dietary habits. Unhealthy ways of eating and junk food are very appealing to kids. Foods that contribute to high blood pressure in kids are typically fast foods, and teenagers like to congregate in these places. Once in the premises, their consumption of this unhealthy food tends to rise dramatically.
There are various medical conditions which are hard to discern which could also be a cause of childhood hypertension. They include sleep apnea, even mild forms, kidney issues, glandular issues, and lupus. Also, psychological problems can cause children to eat too much. If a child has hypertension, it's essential to talk to a physician, even if the obvious cause appears to be obesity. There could be underlying factors that may require treatment along with the elimination of the obesity problem. - 32389
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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.
