World Hypertension Day: Risk factors of hypertension among teenagers
What's the story
Hypertension is not just a problem for adults anymore. Today, many teenagers are dealing with high blood pressure. It is emerging into a serious health problem, and that's why we observe World Hypertension Day today. On this day let us understand why some teens are more likely to have high blood pressure. Here are some major risks factors to watch out for.
Context
Here's what our expert says
Hypertension is defined as a persistent elevated pressure exerted by the flowing blood along the walls of the blood vessels. Persistently elevated blood pressures damage the vessel wall in the long run and cause multiple organ damage. Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to deadly complications like heart failure, stroke, kidney and liver failure, and rupture of blood vessels like aorta and/or aneurysms.
Diet
Unhealthy diets
Unhealthy diets can put teenagers at risk for high blood pressure. One major concern is having a diet that's high in sodium but low in potassium. Sodium, which is found in table salt, can lead to increased blood pressure when consumed excessively. Most of the sodium we consume comes from processed and restaurant foods. These foods will help you control high blood pressure.
Information
Unhealthy lifestyle linked to high blood pressure in teenagers
According to a study in the European Heart Journal, nine out of 10 cases of high blood pressure in children and teens happen because they don't move around enough, have diets heavy on sugar and salt, and are overweight or obese.
Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyle
Being inactive and not exercising enough can mess up their arteries. When they get stiff and clogged with plaque, the heart has to work extra hard to pump blood, making the blood pressure rise. It is like trying to force water through a narrow pipe. Want to control high blood pressure? Do these exercises regularly and keep your blood pressure in check.
Overweight
Being overweight or obese
Teens who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing hypertension. Overweight teens need to understand the impact on their health and take steps to manage their weight. By adopting healthy eating habits and staying active, they can reduce their risk of hypertension and maintain better overall well-being. Here are five easy ways to fix your sedentary lifestyle.
Others
Other factors
It is not just about being overweight; there are other factors too. Hormonal changes, rapid growth spurts, and even smoking can complicate hypertension. So, even if a teenager does not look obese, their blood pressure reading may still be similar to their overweight peers. It is crucial to keep an eye on blood pressure regardless of outward appearance.