Many people have the misconception that hypertension is a condition that occurs only in adults. However, this is not true. High blood pressure in teens is also common. In fact, even young children are likely to develop this condition. In the United States of America, obesity is one of the most common causes for hypertension cases in children and teens. Over the last five years, the number of teenagers suffering from high blood pressure has increased by nearly 5%.
Causes
Earlier, even the doctors associated the primary causes of high blood pressure in teens with underlying problems with the kidneys or heart. However, recent researches have shown that this is not true. In most cases, teenagers suffer from primary hypertension. However, as in the cases of hypertension in adults, the causes are still not known. Family history can be one of the main causes though. If the parents are at a higher risk of developing the condition of hypertension, their children and teens are very much likely to inherit the tendency. Poor lifestyle of the teens may also become a reason for their hypertension condition. If the poor lifestyle is resulting in obesity, it is known as “decreased cardiovascular fitness” in medical terms.
Prevention
Preventing and controlling high blood pressure is very critical during the adolescent years. It is very important for you to understand that high blood pressure in teens is a more complex situation than it is in adults. If teenager are suffering from the problem of hypertension, they also tend to suffer from cardiovascular and blood vessel problems later in their lives. Therefore, adequate care and treatment must be provided to them as soon as the condition is diagnosed. The methods of prevention however are very much similar to those applicable in adults, including the following:
• Completely avoid the use of drug and alcohol. Children who consume alcohol and drugs are more likely to develop high blood pressure.
• Regular exercise is very important – at least for twenty minutes for five days a week.
• Quit smoking.
• Follow a balanced, healthy diet program.
• Most importantly, teens must maintain a healthy body weight.
Treatment Options
The options for high blood pressure treatment for teenagers vary, depending upon their overall healthy condition. The doctor may suggest more aggressive treatment for more severe forms of hypertension. Though there are no best medications as such, but teenagers can also be prescribed the same medicines that are used for adults. However, the doctor may prescribe a lower dosage. Adequate lifestyle adjustments are also essential. The medications must be incorporated with the right diet and exercise program.
It is also important for you to understand that diagnosing high blood pressure in teens is more complicated than diagnosing the same in adults. Moreover, proper monitoring and prompt medical attention is critical once the problem is diagnosed.