What is considered normal blood pressure for a school-age child. How is blood pressure measured in children. What are the causes of high blood pressure in kids. What are the signs of hypertension in children. How can parents help prevent high blood pressure in their children.

Understanding Blood Pressure in Children

Blood pressure is a crucial health indicator that’s not exclusive to adults. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), approximately 3.5% of children and teenagers have high blood pressure, a condition that can lead to severe complications if left untreated.

Dr. Alan Sing, a pediatric cardiologist at Pediatric Heart Specialists, explains, “A blood pressure reading measures the force of blood against the walls of arteries. This pressure is what your heart has to pump against to get blood out to the rest of your body. If blood pressure is higher, then the heart has to work harder. Over time, this high blood pressure can cause damage to different organ systems in the body.”

How is Blood Pressure Measured in Children?

Regular blood pressure screenings are essential for identifying hypertension in children. Here’s how it’s typically done:

• Annual checks starting at age 3
• Child sits comfortably with feet supported and arm at heart level
• Physician uses a stethoscope and hand-inflated arm cuff
• More frequent checks for children with risk factors like obesity or kidney disease

For a more comprehensive assessment, doctors may use a 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor (ABPM). This device takes measurements every 20-30 minutes during the day and 30-60 minutes at night, providing a complete picture of blood pressure fluctuations.

Normal Blood Pressure Ranges for Children

Unlike adults, there isn’t a single “normal” blood pressure number for all children. The healthy range depends on age, height, and gender.

For Children Under 13:

Pediatricians use percentile charts to compare a child’s blood pressure to peers of the same age, height, and gender. This method allows for a more precise indication of high blood pressure in young children.

• Elevated blood pressure: Above the 90th percentile
• Hypertension: Above the 95th percentile

For Teenagers (13 and older):

Blood pressure ranges for teenagers are the same as for adults:

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
• Elevated: Systolic between 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg
• Hypertension: Top or bottom number higher than 130/80 mm Hg

Recognizing Signs of High Blood Pressure in Children

Can children display symptoms of high blood pressure? While hypertension is often a silent condition, some children may experience:

• Frequent headaches
• Changes in vision
• Dizziness

It’s important to note that these symptoms are not exclusive to hypertension and can be indicative of other health issues. Regular blood pressure screenings remain the most reliable method for detecting high blood pressure in children.

Causes of High Blood Pressure in Children

Various factors can contribute to elevated blood pressure readings in children. These include:

1. Obesity or being overweight
2. High-sodium diet
3. Kidney disease
4. Congenital or acquired heart disease
5. Thyroid or adrenal disease
6. Diabetes
7. Genetic disorders
8. Stress

In young children (under 6), high blood pressure is often related to an underlying medical condition, known as secondary hypertension. Primary hypertension, which has no disease-related cause, is more common in older children.

Preventing High Blood Pressure in Children

How can parents help maintain their child’s healthy blood pressure? Consider these strategies:

• Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit sodium intake
• Promote regular physical activity
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Ensure adequate sleep
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or counseling if needed

By adopting these lifestyle habits, families can work together to reduce the risk of hypertension and promote overall cardiovascular health.

The Importance of Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring

Why is consistent blood pressure monitoring crucial for children? Regular screenings allow healthcare providers to:

• Detect hypertension early
• Track trends over time
• Identify potential underlying health issues
• Implement timely interventions

Parents should ensure their child attends annual check-ups and follow their pediatrician’s recommendations for blood pressure monitoring, especially if their child has risk factors for hypertension.

Treatment Options for High Blood Pressure in Children

If a child is diagnosed with hypertension, what treatment approaches might be considered? The course of action typically depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Treatment options may include:

1. Lifestyle modifications:
   • Dietary changes
   • Increased physical activity
   • Weight management
2. Medications:
   • ACE inhibitors
   • Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)
   • Calcium channel blockers
   • Beta-blockers
3. Treatment of underlying conditions:
   • Managing kidney disease
   • Addressing hormonal imbalances
   • Correcting heart defects

It’s crucial to work closely with a pediatrician or pediatric cardiologist to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses the child’s specific needs and medical history.

The Role of Diet in Managing Blood Pressure

How does diet impact a child’s blood pressure? A balanced, nutrient-rich diet can play a significant role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Consider incorporating these dietary habits:

• Increase intake of fruits and vegetables
• Choose whole grains over refined carbohydrates
• Opt for lean proteins like fish, poultry, and legumes
• Limit processed foods high in sodium and added sugars
• Encourage adequate hydration with water as the primary beverage

Parents can work with a pediatric nutritionist to develop a meal plan that supports their child’s overall health and helps manage blood pressure.

Physical Activity and Blood Pressure

How does exercise affect blood pressure in children? Regular physical activity offers numerous benefits for cardiovascular health, including:

• Strengthening the heart muscle
• Improving circulation
• Helping maintain a healthy weight
• Reducing stress levels

The American Heart Association recommends that children and adolescents engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. This can include a mix of aerobic activities, strength training, and flexibility exercises.

Long-term Health Implications of Childhood Hypertension

Why is it crucial to address high blood pressure in children? Untreated hypertension can lead to various health complications later in life, including:

• Heart disease
• Kidney failure
• Stroke
• Vision loss
• Cognitive impairment

By identifying and managing high blood pressure early, healthcare providers can help prevent or mitigate these long-term health risks, promoting better overall health outcomes for children as they grow into adulthood.

The Impact of Stress on Children’s Blood Pressure

How does stress affect blood pressure in children? Chronic stress can contribute to elevated blood pressure through various mechanisms:

• Activation of the sympathetic nervous system
• Release of stress hormones like cortisol
• Unhealthy coping behaviors (e.g., overeating, decreased physical activity)

Parents and caregivers can help children manage stress by:

1. Encouraging open communication about feelings and concerns
2. Teaching relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness
3. Ensuring adequate sleep and downtime
4. Promoting a balanced lifestyle with time for play, social activities, and hobbies
5. Seeking professional help if stress becomes overwhelming or persistent

The Role of Genetics in Childhood Hypertension

To what extent do genetics influence a child’s risk of developing high blood pressure? While lifestyle factors play a significant role, genetic predisposition can also contribute to hypertension in children. Consider these points:

• Family history of hypertension increases a child’s risk
• Certain genetic disorders can affect blood pressure regulation
• Genetic factors may influence salt sensitivity and kidney function

Understanding a family’s medical history can help healthcare providers assess a child’s risk and implement appropriate preventive measures or early interventions.

Emerging Research in Pediatric Hypertension

What new developments are shaping our understanding of high blood pressure in children? Recent research has focused on several areas:

1. Improved screening methods:
   • Development of more accurate percentile charts
   • Exploration of novel biomarkers for early detection
2. Environmental factors:
   • Impact of air pollution on cardiovascular health
   • Effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals
3. Technological advancements:
   • Wearable devices for continuous blood pressure monitoring
   • Smartphone apps for tracking and managing hypertension
4. Personalized medicine approaches:
   • Genetic testing to guide treatment decisions
   • Tailored lifestyle interventions based on individual risk factors

These ongoing research efforts aim to enhance our ability to prevent, detect, and manage hypertension in pediatric populations effectively.

Education and Awareness: Empowering Families to Manage Blood Pressure

How can we improve public understanding of childhood hypertension? Raising awareness about the importance of blood pressure monitoring in children is crucial. Healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations can collaborate to:

• Provide educational resources for parents and caregivers
• Incorporate blood pressure education into school health programs
• Offer workshops on healthy lifestyle habits for families
• Promote regular health check-ups and screenings
• Address misconceptions about hypertension in children

By empowering families with knowledge and tools to manage blood pressure, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of hypertension and its associated health risks in pediatric populations.

The Role of Healthcare Providers in Managing Childhood Hypertension

How can healthcare professionals best support children with high blood pressure and their families? Effective management of pediatric hypertension requires a collaborative approach:

1. Comprehensive assessment:
   • Thorough medical history evaluation
   • Physical examination
   • Appropriate diagnostic tests
2. Individualized treatment plans:
   • Tailored lifestyle recommendations
   • Medication management when necessary
   • Regular follow-up and monitoring
3. Patient and family education:
   • Explaining the condition and its implications
   • Providing guidance on home blood pressure monitoring
   • Offering resources for lifestyle modifications
4. Multidisciplinary care:
   • Collaboration with specialists (e.g., pediatric cardiologists, nephrologists)
   • Referrals to nutritionists or mental health professionals when needed
5. Ongoing support:
   • Regular check-ins to address concerns and adjust treatment as needed
   • Encouragement and positive reinforcement for adherence to treatment plans

By adopting a holistic and patient-centered approach, healthcare providers can help children and their families navigate the challenges of managing hypertension effectively.

High Blood Pressure in Kids – Children’s Health

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You may think that hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition that affects only adults. However, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), an estimated 3.5% of children and teens have high blood pressure. When left untreated, this condition can cause serious complications, such as heart disease, kidney failure, stroke and vision loss.

“A blood pressure reading measures the force of blood against the walls of arteries. This pressure is what your heart has to pump against to get blood out to the rest of your body,” explains Alan Sing, M.D., a pediatric cardiologist at Pediatric Heart Specialists, a Children’s Health℠ Care Network Partner. “If blood pressure is higher, then the heart has to work harder. Over time, this high blood pressure can cause damage to different organ systems in the body.”

However, regular screenings can help identify high blood pressure in children. Learn more about what is considered high blood pressure for a child and ways you can help keep your child healthy.

How is a child’s blood pressure checked?

A child’s blood pressure should be checked once a year at their annual exam starting at the age of 3. Your child should sit comfortably in a chair with their feet supported and their arm level with their heart. Your child’s physician or nurse will use a stethoscope and a hand-inflated arm cuff to check their blood pressure.

If a child has a health condition that increases their risk for high blood pressure, such as obesity or kidney disease, their blood pressure will be checked at every doctor visit. If a child’s blood pressure is high at a well-child visit, their blood pressure will also be checked more frequently.

Your child’s pediatrician will track trends in blood pressure over time, not just the initial screening, to accurately identify a diagnosis of hypertension.

What is a normal blood pressure for a child?

There isn’t one single number or blood pressure that is considered normal for all children. A healthy blood pressure for a child depends on their age, height and gender.

For children under the age of 13, your pediatrician will use a percentile chart to compare your child’s blood pressure to peers of the same age, height and gender. This allows a more precise indication if a young child is showing high blood pressure. A child is considered to have an elevated blood pressure if their blood pressure falls above the 90th percentile, and hypertension if they are above the 95th percentile.

Over the age of 13, normal blood pressure ranges are the same for teenagers as they are for adults:

• Normal blood pressure: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
• Elevated blood pressure: Systolic (top number) between 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic (bottom number) less than 80 mm Hg
• Hypertension: Top or bottom number higher than 130/80 mm Hg

If your child’s pediatrician notices a trend of high blood pressure readings, they will closely monitor your child’s blood pressure or refer you to a specialist to address any health concerns. They may have your child wear a 24-hour, portable blood pressure monitoring device (called an ambulatory blood pressure monitor or ABPM). This can be worn at home during your child’s normal routine and takes measurements every 20 to 30 minutes during the daytime and 30 to 60 minutes at night.

This monitor can help your child’s pediatrician decide whether your child needs further tests or treatment by giving a complete picture of blood pressure throughout the day and night.

What are signs of high blood pressure in kids?

Hypertension is often a silent condition. Typically, there aren’t obvious symptoms to let parents know their child has high blood pressure; it is often diagnosed when the doctor discovers it during an exam. This is why regular blood pressure screening is so important.

Some children with high blood pressure may experience frequent headaches, changes in vision or dizziness. If your child complains of these symptoms, contact your pediatrician.

What are causes of high blood pressure in kids?

A child’s blood pressure might be high when it is measured for many reasons, such as stress, illness, recent physical activity, a true hypertension issue or a medical condition.

Causes of high blood pressure in kids can include:

• Obesity or being overweight
• High-sodium diet (too much salt)
• Kidney disease
• Congenital or acquired heart disease
• Thyroid or adrenal disease
• Diabetes
• Genetic disorders (inherited from a parent or grandparent)
• Stress

When a young child (under 6) has high blood pressure, the cause is often a related medical condition, such as kidney disease. This is called secondary hypertension.

When high blood pressure has no disease-related cause, it’s called primary hypertension. Primary hypertension is more common in older children and teens and is commonly related to obesity or to a family history of hypertension.

“There is a growing trend in the number of children and teens who are overweight or have obesity, and this is a major cause of high blood pressure in kids,” says Smitha Vidi, M.D., a pediatric nephrologist at Children’s Health and Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern. “Additionally, kids are eating a lot of processed foods, which have very high amounts of salt. A high-salt diet is a big contributor to increasing blood pressures.”

How is high blood pressure treated in children?

If your child is diagnosed with hypertension, your pediatrician may recommend certain lifestyle changes to lower their blood pressure, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise or weight loss.

• DASH diet: Designed from research sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, the DASH diet focuses on eating fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, nuts, beans and seeds.
• Exercise: The AAP recommends children and adolescents get 60 minutes or more of physical activity daily (includes outside play and team sports).
• Low-sodium diet: Sodium is the scientific name for the salt in food. In addition to watching table salt usage, be cautious of how much processed food your child eats.

If needed, your child’s physician may prescribe medications to control blood pressure. These medicines are the same ones adults take, just in age and weight-appropriate doses. Your child’s physician can choose the best medication for your child based on their individual health profile and risk factors.

You can help your child prevent high blood pressure and complications. Talk about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and continue to be a good role model – making healthy food choices and engaging in exercise as a family.

“Taking steps as a family to stay healthy is key to preventing hypertension in children,” says Dr. Vidi. “Try to devote a little of your time each day to doing fun activities with your kids, such as biking, dancing, swimming or even walking to a nearby park. “

Learn more

No matter the reason behind a child having high blood pressure, Children’s Health can provide expert, multidisciplinary care. Learn more about hypertension in kids and how we can help.

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American Academy of Pediatrics, determinants of health, diet, heart health, hypertension, obesity, overweight, primary care

Blood pressure of children and youth, 2012 to 2015

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Release date: October 13, 2016

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On this page

• Blood pressure and body composition
• About blood pressure
• Data
• Notes

The results of the 2012 to 2015^Note 1 Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) indicate that the average resting blood pressure of children and youth aged 6 to 19 was 97/62 mmHg. Among this group, 93% had a measured blood pressure that was considered normal and 7% had results considered borderline or elevated (data not shown).

In children aged 6 to 11, average resting blood pressure was 94/62 mmHg, while youth aged 12 to 19 had an average resting blood pressure of 99/63 mmHg.

The proportion of girls aged 12 to 19 with blood pressure in the normal range was significantly higher than that of girls aged 6 to 11 (Chart 1).

Data table for Chart 1

Data table for chart 1

Table summary

This table displays the results of Data table for chart 1 Normal and Borderline or elevated, calculated using percent units of measure (appearing as column headers).

		Normal	Borderline or elevated
		percent
Total	6 to 11 years	91	9
	12 to 19 years	94. 8	5,2Note E: Use with caution
Boys	6 to 11 years	92.7	7.3
	12 to 19 years	93.7	5,3Note E: Use with caution
Girls	6 to 11 years	89.1	10.9
	12 to 19 years	95.9	4,1Note E: Use with caution

Blood pressure and body composition

Height and weight were measured for all CHMS respondents. Children and youth who were classified as being overweight (99/62 mmHg) or obese (102/64 mmHg) had a significantly higher average blood pressure than normal weight children (95/61 mmHg). Average systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in overweight and obese children compared with those in the normal weight category (Chart 2). As well, overweight and obese children had significantly higher average diastolic blood pressure when compared with their normal weight counterparts (Chart 3).^{Note 2Note 3Note 4Note 5}

Data table for Chart 2

Data table for Chart 3

Data table for chart 3

Table summary

This table displays the results of Data table for chart 3 Thinness/normal weight, Overweight and Obese, calculated using mmHg units of measure (appearing as column headers).

		Thinness/normal weight	Overweight	Obese
		mmHg
Total	6 to 11 years	61	62	65
	12 to 19 years	61	62	64
Boys	6 to 11 years	61	61	65
	12 to 19 years	61	63	64
Girls	6 to 11 years	61	62	65
	12 to 19 years	61	62	64

Start of text box

About blood pressure

Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood against the artery walls, and is expressed as systolic pressure/diastolic pressure in millimetres of mercury (e. g., 120/80 mmHg). The systolic pressure (top number) is the pressure when the heart contracts and pushes the blood out, and the diastolic pressure (bottom number) is the lowest pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.

Resting blood pressure was measured in the CHMS using an automated device (BPTru™) following a five-minute rest period. The BPTru™ recorded six measurements, one minute apart. The average systolic and diastolic blood pressure were calculated using the last five out of six measurements.

The criteria for blood pressure classification in children and adults are as follows:

Table

The criteria for blood pressure classification in adults are as follows:

Table summary

This table displays the results of The criteria for blood pressure classification in adults are as follows:. The information is grouped by Category (appearing as row headers), Description (appearing as column headers).

Category	Description
	Ages 6 to 17Note 2	Ages 18 and 19Note 3
Normal	SBP and DBP < 90th percentile	Mean SBP/DBP < 120/80 mmHg
Borderline	SBP or DBP ≥ to the 90th percentile, but < the 95th percentile OR Measured mean SBP/DBP > 120/80 mmHg	Mean SBP of 120-139 mmHg and mean DBP of 80-89 mmHg OR Mean SBP of 120-139 mmHg and mean DBP Mean SBP
Elevated	SBP or DBP ≥ 95th percentile OR Respondent reported using blood pressure medication within the past month	Mean SBP/DBP of ≥ 140/90 mmHg OR Respondent reported using blood pressure medication within the past month

Data

Canadian Health Measures Survey data related to this fact sheet are available in CANSIM tables 117-0004, 117-0008 and 117-0009.

For more information on the Canadian Health Measures Survey, please contact Statistics Canada’s Statistical Information Service (toll-free 1-800-263-1136; 514-283-8300; [email protected]).

ISSN: 1920-9118

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Canada owes the success of its statistical system to a long-standing partnership between Statistics Canada, the citizens of Canada, its businesses, governments and other institutions. Accurate and timely statistical information could not be produced without their continued co-operation and goodwill.

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Statistics Canada is committed to serving its clients in a prompt, reliable and courteous manner. To this end, the Agency has developed standards of service which its employees observe in serving its clients.

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Published by authority of the Minister responsible for Statistics Canada.

© Minister of Industry, 2016

All rights reserved. Use of this publication is governed by the Statistics Canada Open Licence Agreement.

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Date modified:

2016-10-13

What should be the blood pressure of a child? Children’s cardiologist of the State Children’s Clinical Hospital Elena Malancheva answers the questions

Implementation of the regional project

“Fight against cardiovascular diseases” continues in the republic. In the City Children’s Clinical Hospital, every year diseases of the circulatory system are detected for the first time in about 0. 1-0.3% of children. Currently, more than 850 minor patients from 0 to 17 years old are under dispensary observation, which is 0.7% of the total attached population. Most often, children are diagnosed with heart and vascular defects, heart rhythm disturbances, high or low blood pressure.

Unfortunately, high (hypertension) or low blood pressure (hypotension) also occurs in children, although not as often as in adults. As a rule, the disease is asymptomatic and is detected either by chance, during a routine examination, or when complaints appear. The pediatric cardiologist of the City Children’s Clinical Hospital Elena Malancheva will tell you in detail about this.

－ What is the age norm for blood pressure in children?

First of all, it should be noted that the upper pressure indicator, called systolic, is the pressure that occurs during the contraction phase of the heart muscle (systole). Lower, or diastolic, is the pressure that occurs during the relaxation phase of the heart muscle (diastole).

Systolic (upper) and diastolic (lower) pressure have their own minimum and maximum normal (physiological) values. They are measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).

Below is a table with indicators of normal blood pressure (BP) in children in different age periods.

－ What can be a reason to visit a doctor with a child ?

Blood pressure can vary depending on various factors. For example, in the morning, its indicators may be closer to the minimum normal limits, and increase during the day depending on the level of physical activity, the presence of stress factors, overwork, etc. If the numbers are within the physiological limits, then everything is in order, but if not, this is a reason to consult a doctor.

However, BP readings may be erroneous if the size of the rubber cuff does not match the size of the patient’s arm. For example, if a child uses an adult cuff, then the results are much lower.

－ What can cause abnormal blood pressure in children?

If we talk about lowering blood pressure, then it can be observed during or after colds, with physical and mental overload, living in highlands (meaning adaptation to the environment), vegetative vascular disorders.

The causes of high blood pressure in a child are much more numerous. There are whole groups of diseases in which arterial hypertension occurs. These are some pathologies of the cardiovascular, endocrine, nervous system, kidneys and adrenal glands.

The most common causes of hypertension in children are obesity, hormonal dysfunction during adolescence, and autonomic vascular disorders.

Important! Parents should not forget that from about the age of 7, changes begin in a child’s life that can negatively affect blood pressure and health in general. Pressure at this age varies due to reduced physical activity, with the start of school and with a change in social circle, which is stressful.

Symptoms of elevated blood pressure: frequent headaches that are not relieved by classical anesthetics; headache worse on waking and after increased activity; discomfort in the region of the heart; lethargy, fatigue, the child is not too active even after a good rest; frequent nosebleeds; deteriorating vision; rapid heart rate.

Symptoms of low blood pressure: loss of strength, passivity, loss of interest not only in studies but also in play. The child often talks about a headache that is concentrated in the temple area, complains of nausea and loss of strength.

One of the important symptoms of low blood pressure is the lack of desire to eat. Later the fainting starts. Consciousness after fainting, as a rule, is restored without medical help, but sometimes urgent intervention is not enough.

Parents often confuse symptoms with overwork at school.

－ What should parents do to prevent hypertension?

It is necessary to monitor the daily routine, including ensuring that the child has a good night’s rest. Regular, but moderate physical activity is important – it is enough to attend sports classes several times a week or do short morning exercises.

To strengthen the cardiovascular system, water procedures in warm water or under a contrast shower are relevant. Mandatory walks in the fresh air – at least two hours daily.

Parents need to control the amount of food consumed by the child – excess weight is one of the factors of high blood pressure. It is necessary to exclude harmful foods from the diet and control the amount of salt added to dishes.

It is also important to monitor the condition of the teeth – even incipient caries can cause changes in blood pressure.

I would also especially like to address parents of older children and teenagers. I strongly recommend limiting TV and phone viewing, especially 2 hours before bedtime; reduce headphone usage time. In addition, categorically exclude the use of energy drinks.

－ Which doctor should I contact if my child’s blood pressure changes?

First of all, you should consult a pediatrician. Already at this stage, he can prescribe a detailed study, according to the results of which, if necessary, he will refer to narrow specialists: a cardiologist, neurologist, nephrologist, endocrinologist.

Be healthy!

Normal blood pressure in children: table | Med-magazin.ua

Author:

Ednak Vasily Igorevich

Surgeon, Orthopedist, Doctor of the highest category

Publication date: 11. 09.2019
Update date: 05/15/2023

Every mother should know what is the norm of blood pressure BE%D0%B5_%D0%B4%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5) in children of a certain age, and, in fact, be able to notice in time changes. To begin with, it is worth noting that blood pressure in children, compared to adults, is lower – at an early age, the walls of the vessels are very thin, with a wide lumen. The capillary network is larger than in an adult and the blood pressure is correspondingly lower. But with age, the situation changes.

In this article you will learn:

1. Causes of high blood pressure in children
2. What are the norms of blood pressure in children?
3. Rules for measuring blood pressure

Causes of high blood pressure in children

Normal blood pressure in children is an issue that worries many parents. It is important to remember that the factor that contributes to high blood pressure (among others) is excess. Elevated blood pressure can also occur as a result of physiological factors and manifest itself after strong emotional upheavals or physical exertion. On the other hand, low blood pressure is most often caused by pathological conditions such as thyroid dysfunction, diabetes mellitus or infectious diseases.

If you notice that your child’s blood pressure sometimes fluctuates, do not panic ahead of time. After all, pressure surges can be influenced by factors such as:

• Stress;
• Change of weather;
• Lack of physical activity or vice versa too intense physical activity;
• It is noteworthy that the pressure in girls, aged 5 to 10 years, is higher than in boys, then vice versa.

But if deviations from the norm occur frequently, and in addition to this, the child feels worse and has a headache, this is a clear reason for a visit to the doctor. In order to prevent the development of serious pathologies, it is necessary to notice the presence of pressure problems in the child in time and act as quickly as possible. What is the normal blood pressure in children? It is different for every age. In general, “normal” pressure is a general indicator of 3 values ​​​​- SBP (systolic or upper), DBP (diastolic, the so-called lower) pressure and pulse. The difference between SBP and DBP is pulse pressure.

What are the norms of blood pressure in children?

In newborns, they are in the range of 60-96 and 40-50 units;

The older the child gets, the higher the rate. But the table shows averages for certain ages. How to understand what should be the pressure in children at 5 years old? Or what pressure of a 7-year-old child should not cause concern to parents? You can determine the norm of blood pressure for a specific age using the formula – we add 90 units to the number of years of the child to determine SBP, and 60 for DBP. A special device is used to measure pressure – a tonometer. Tonometers are mechanical or electronic.

Rules for measuring blood pressure

To get the most accurate result, you should follow certain rules:

• The measurement is carried out at rest, best after waking up;
• Hands should be on a hard surface with palms up;
• The cuff of the tonometer is attached to the arm in such a way that a finger can be inserted between it;
• Inflate and deflate the device slowly;
• For a more accurate result, it is recommended to take 2-3 measurements and choose the smallest value;
• If the child often has a headache and you need to get the results for further examination, measure the pressure for several days in a row, but strictly at a certain time – this way you will get the most accurate readings.

And, of course, you should not immediately diagnose some disease in your child.