High blood pressure experienced in childhood and adolescence may unfortunately continue into adulthood. This is a good reason to prevent and treat this condition in younger persons. If a child’s systolic or diastolic blood pressure is above the 95th percentile for age, gender, and height on at least 3 separate measurements, the child has high blood pressure. High blood pressure in children can increase their risk for developing atherosclerosis, kidney damage, and damage to the heart.
Being overweight or obese in childhood is a strong predictor of high blood pressure. Physical activity and reduced salt intake are important. Packing a healthy lunch is also a step in the right direction. Medications prescribed for children with high blood pressure are similar to those prescribed for adults, and include angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, and diuretics. However, there is currently not as much information on the use of these medications in children as there is for adults. Doses for children may be different. Amlodipine (Norvasc), a calcium channel blocker, is commonly prescribed for children with high blood pressure. Enalapril (Vasotec) and lisinopril (Zestril) are ACE inhibitor medications that also may be prescribed.
Do you have a question that you would like answered? Contact the helpful and knowledgeable Pharmacists at Cheek & Scott Drugs, in Live Oak and Lake City, Florida.
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