High Blood Pressure In Teens - Causes, Symptoms & Prevention Tips

Blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls. We all need blood pressure to live. Without it, blood cannot flow through our bodies and carry oxygen to our vital organs. But when blood pressure gets too high - a condition called hypertension - it can lead to serious medical problems. Hypertension is more of an adult problem but it's apprearing rapidly in teens too. The good news is hypertension is treatable.

How Does High Blood Pressure Work

High blood pressure (hypertension) means that the pressure inside the arteries is too high. This higher pressure may harm the arteries and cause the heart to work harder. Many things affect blood pressure. These include:

• Time of day
• Physical activity
• Emotions
• Age, height, weight, and gender
• Illness or medicines
• Diet

One high blood pressure reading does not mean that your child has high blood pressure. Your child's healthcare provider will want to check your child's blood pressure over a period of days or weeks. When blood pressure stays high, it may be a problem.

Causes Of Teenage High Blood Pressure

Hypertension can be primary. This means the cause isn't known. Or it may be secondary. This means it happens with illness or certain lifestyle choices.

Secondary causes of high blood pressure in children and teens include:

• Kidney d