Childhood obesity is a growing problem that affects millions of children worldwide.

In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of obese children and adolescents increased tenfold from 11 million in 1975 to 124 million in 2016.

Obesity in children not only increases the risk of developing several chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, but also hypertension, or high blood pressure.

Hypertension in children with obesity is a serious concern, and parents and healthcare providers need to take it seriously.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common condition in which the force of blood against the walls of arteries is too high, which can lead to serious health problems, such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.

For children, hypertension is defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP) and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) that are equal to or exceed the 95th percentile for age, sex, and height on three or more occasions.

What Causes Hypertension in Children with Obesity?

The exact cause of hypertension in children with obesity is still unknown. However, several factors may contribute to its development.

One possible factor is insulin resistance, which occurs when the body’s cells become resistant to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.

When insulin resistance occurs, the body compensates by producing more insulin, which can lead to higher blood pressure.

Another possible factor is inflammation, which is a response by the body to injury, infection, or toxins. Inflammation can damage blood vessels, which can lead to increased blood pressure.

Finally, excess body weight can also contribute to hypertension in children. When the body carries excess weight, it has to work harder to pump blood, which can lead to higher blood pressure.

What Are the Symptoms of Hypertension in Children?

Most children with hypertension do not have any symptoms. However, some children may experience headaches, dizziness, nosebleeds, or blurry vision.

Related Article Obese Children: Are They Prone to Hypertension?

How is Hypertension Diagnosed in Children?

Hypertension in children is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children have their blood pressure checked at least once a year starting at age three.

If a child’s blood pressure is higher than normal, the healthcare provider may recommend additional tests, such as a urine test or blood test, to check for underlying conditions, such as kidney disease or diabetes.

How is Hypertension Treated in Children with Obesity?

The treatment of hypertension in children with obesity involves lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, increasing physical activity, and eating a healthy diet. The healthcare provider may also prescribe medication to lower blood pressure.

Weight loss is one of the most effective ways to lower blood pressure in children with obesity.

Even a modest weight loss of 5 to 10 percent can have significant health benefits, such as reducing blood pressure, improving insulin sensitivity, and improving lipid profiles.

In addition, increasing physical activity is also important for lowering blood pressure in children with obesity.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children get at least one hour of physical activity per day, such as running, biking, swimming, or dancing.

Eating a healthy diet is also essential for managing hypertension in children with obesity.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that children eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products, and limit their intake of added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium.

Conclusion

Childhood obesity is a growing problem that affects millions of children worldwide. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a serious concern in children with obesity, and parents and healthcare providers need to take it seriously.

Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, increasing physical activity, and eating a healthy diet, can help manage hypertension in children with obesity.