Hypertension

Impact of Hypertension on Anatomy and Health

Hypertension exerts extra pressure on the walls of the blood vessels, leading to damage over time. This damage impacts various organs and systems within the body:

• Cardiovascular System: Hypertension can cause the arteries to become less elastic, reducing blood flow and oxygen to the heart. This can result in heart disease, angina (chest pain), a heart attack, or heart failure. The increased workload on the heart may also cause the heart muscle to thicken, a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy.
• Brain: High blood pressure can reduce the supply of blood and oxygen to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke and transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes). Hypertension can also contribute to cognitive decline over time, potentially leading to conditions such as vascular dementia.
• Kidneys: The kidneys help filter waste and excess fluids from the body. High blood pressure can damage the arteries around the kidneys and reduce their ability to function properly, leading to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
• Eyes: High blood pressure can damage the eyes' tiny, delicate blood vessels, leading to retinopathy (damage to the retina). This condition can cause blurred vision or, in severe cases, vision loss. Hypertension can also increase the risk of other eye conditions, such as optic neuropathy or glaucoma.
• Blood Vessels (Arteries): Constant high pressure can cause arteries to weaken, bulge, or develop aneurysms. If an aneurysm bursts, it can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding.
• Metabolic and Hormonal Effects: Long-standing hypertension can influence metabolic processes, contributing to insulin resistance and the development of type 2 diabetes. It may also impact the endocrine system, affecting hormones that regulate blood pressure and other bodily functions.

Risk Factors for Hypertension in Children

Certain factors increase a child's chance of developing high blood pressure, including:

• Family History: A child may be at higher risk if parents or close relatives have high blood pressure.
• Being Overweight or Obese: Extra weight puts additional strain on the heart and blood vessels.
• Diet: Eating foods high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats can raise blood pressure.
• Lack of Exercise: Physical inactivity weakens the heart and increases the risk of high blood pressure.
• Medical Conditions: Heart problems, kidney disease, and certain hormone disorders can cause secondary hypertension.

Signs and Symptoms of Hypertension

High blood pressure is often called the “silent condition” because it usually doesn't cause symptoms. However, if the blood pressure gets extremely high, children may experience:

• Severe headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Blurred or double vision
• Dizziness or fainting
• Chest pain or discomfort

If your child experiences these symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately.

How is Hypertension Diagnosed?

To diagnose hypertension, doctors check blood pressure during routine visits. If high readings are found, further testing may be done, such as:

• 24-hour Blood Pressure Monitor: A small device tracks blood pressure throughout the day.
• Blood Tests: To check for signs of kidney, heart, or hormonal issues.
• ECG or Echocardiogram: To check for heart-related causes of high blood pressure.

How is Hypertension Treated in Children?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. The main treatments include:

Lifestyle Changes

• Healthy Eating: A heart-friendly diet, such as the DASH diet, includes more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing salt and sugar.
• Exercise: Encourage at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity, such as cycling, swimming, or playing sports.
• Weight Management: For children with excess weight, gradual weight loss may help lower blood pressure.
• Reduce Stress: Relaxation activities like breathing exercises or yoga can help.

Medications

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medications like ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics may be prescribed to lower blood pressure.



What Can Parents Do?

Here’s how you can support your child if they have hypertension:

• Follow a Healthy Eating Plan: Encourage meals low in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
• Be Active Together: Plan family activities that get everyone moving, like walking, dancing, or sports.
• Limit Screen Time: Encourage outdoor play and reduce the amount of time spent on screens.
• Monitor Blood Pressure: Track your child’s blood pressure at home, especially if it has been high before.
• Attend Regular Check-Ups: Follow your doctor’s advice about follow-up appointments and ongoing monitoring.

If you have any concerns or questions about your child's blood pressure, speak with your paediatric cardiologist. Early intervention and healthy habits can greatly impact your child’s long-term heart health.