Hypertension, also referred to as high blood pressure, affects one of every 15 children and adolescents worldwide. The medical term ‘paediatric hypertension’ refers to high blood pressure in children. High blood pressure occurs when the heart pumps blood, creating a force that pushes it through the body’s network of vessels. This force is referred to as hypertension. There are two types of hypertensions: systolic, which is the top number in a blood pressure reading and represents the pressure when the heart contracts to push out blood, and diastolic, the lower number in the reading, which reflects the pressure when the heart is relaxed between beats.
Many people tend to ignore the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring. It’s important to have regular blood pressure checks especially for those suffering from the condition as it has the potential to cause damage even in its early stages.
Hypertension in children
Hypertension is not only a problem for adults these days, but it is also seen to affect children and young people. There is a likelihood that children with high blood pressure may be at a higher risk for a stroke, heart attack or other major cardiac event later on in life.
Paediatric hypertension causes the arteries and veins to thrash continuously, which damages the vessels. It may occur when there is insufficient blood flow to the organs through the blood arteries. Some of the primary causes of childhood hypertension include renal impairment and renovascular disease (constriction of the artery to one or both kidneys). Other factors such as hormonal imbalances, preterm birth, and low birth weight can also contribute to hypertension. Genetics play a significant role, with a family history of high blood pressure before age 60 doubling the risk, especially if more than one biological family member is affected. Over time, hypertension can silently cause damage to the brain, heart, and kidneys.
Lifestyle habits such as excessive screen time, obstructive sleeping schedules, lack of consistent exercises and regular consumption of a diet high in sodium and junk food are some of the main causes of hypertension in children.
Lifestyle modifications to manage high blood pressure
Lifestyle plays a key role in the management of paediatric hypertension in children and adults alike. It is important to inculcate healthy habits in children early on to reduce the risk of the condition.
- To begin with, encourage children to focus on a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains, nuts and legumes among others. Along with consumption of a DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), make sure to limit their intake of processed and sugary food items.
- A healthy diet coupled with mild to vigorous aerobic physical activity of 30 minutes can be beneficial and can lower blood pressure.
- Quality sleep is another essential element for children, if you suspect your child is having obstructive sleep you can contact their health care provider.
- Regular health checkups are advisable for children.
- Encouragement of healthy habits can decrease the risk factor of hypertension in children and pave the way for a vibrant tomorrow.
Let’s empower our children with knowledge and action to keep their hearts strong and their futures bright!
(This article is authored by Dr Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology)