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Childhood Hypertension

High blood pressure in children carries serious cardiovascular risks and its cause must be investigated.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Childhood Hypertension?

Pediatric hypertension is defined according to age, sex, and height. Normal <90th percentile, high-normal between 90-95th percentile, stage 1 HT 95-99th percentile + 5 mmHg, stage 2 HT >99th percentile + 5 mmHg. It affects 1-5% of children.

In younger children, secondary causes are more common: renal parenchymal diseases, renal vascular pathologies, coarctation of the aorta, endocrine causes (pheochromocytoma, hyperthyroidism). In adolescents, primary (essential) HT becomes prevalent.

Childhood HT is a precursor to adult cardiovascular disease. End-organ damage such as left ventricular hypertrophy, retinal changes, and microalbuminuria can begin at a young age.

Symptoms

Mostly asymptomatic
Headache and dizziness
Visual disturbance
Nosebleed
Palpitations
Neurological deficits (severe cases)

Risk Factors

Obesity and metabolic syndrome
Family history of HT
Low birth weight
Kidney disease
Endocrine disorders
Sleep apnea

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Annual BP measurement in children over 3 years old
  • At every visit in obese children
  • In headache and visual disturbance
  • In family history of early HT
  • In follow-up of kidney disease

Treatment Methods

01
Lifestyle: weight loss, exercise, salt restriction
02
DASH diet
03
Drug therapy: ACE inhibitors, ARB, calcium channel blockers
04
Investigation of secondary cause
05
Screening for end-organ damage
06
Long-term follow-up and diabetes, lipid control

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.