Addressing pre-hypertension in adolescents involves implementing healthy lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and limiting sodium intake.
Hypertension Day 2023: The increasing prevalence of pre-hypertension among adolescents can be mainly attributed to sedentary lifestyle.
Pre-hypertension in adolescents is a condition in which blood pressure levels are slightly elevated, usually from 120/80 mmHg to 139/89 mmHg. While not classified as high blood pressure, it is an early warning sign that deserves attention. Symptoms of pre-hypertension may be subtle or absent, making it important to regularly monitor blood pressure. Addressing pre-hypertension in adolescents involves implementing healthy lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and limiting sodium intake. Encouraging physical activity, promoting nutritious eating habits and providing education on the risks of high blood pressure can enable teens to take control of their health and prevent future complications.
prehypertension in children
“It is a common medical condition in children especially in pre-adolescents and adolescents and may indicate underlying kidney diseases. Many kidney diseases in children silently raise the blood pressure in children and if detected early, So the outcomes may improve,” says Dr Saumil Gaur, Pediatric Nephrologist, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli.
The increasing prevalence of pre-hypertension among adolescents can be mainly attributed to sedentary lifestyle.
Dr. Usha Gaddam, General Physician, Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, says, “Prehypertension usually does not have any specific symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as the ‘silent killer’. However, some people may experience headache, dizziness or lightheadedness.
Treatment will depend on the symptoms, age and general health of the patient. “It will also depend on how serious the situation is. If the cause of high blood pressure is due to a secondary cause, such as kidney disease, then the disease will be treated. If there is no cause, treatment involves making lifestyle changes,” says Dr Gaur.
Solution
Dr. Gaddam shares possible solutions for pre-hypertension in teenagers which include lifestyle changes:
- Teens should eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. Limiting intake of processed and high-sugar foods.
- Regular physical activity like brisk walking for 45 minutes should be done at least five times a week.
- Adolescents should be encouraged to engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation, deep breathing, yoga.
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure levels can help identify high blood pressure in adolescents early, allowing for early intervention and treatment.
- Weight management should be encouraged for adolescents who are overweight or obese, as weight loss can help reduce blood pressure levels.”