Hypertension: Common QuestionsNancy McDaniel M.D.Q: What is hypertension? A: Hypertension is high blood pressure. When the blood pressure, measured with a cuff in the arm or leg, is higher than expected for the child's age and size, hypertension is diagnosed. Q: Does all hypertension need treatment? A: Not if it is mild. Often the doctor will ask for the blood pressure to be checked several times. If all the readings are high, then diet, exercise or medication will be recommended. If the hypertension is severe, treatment will be started right away and the child might be put in the hospital. Q: What tests might be done if my child is diagnosed with high blood pressure? A: Physical examination, urine and blood tests, electrocardiogram, and cardiac ultrasound might be done. Often in children an evaluation by the kidney specialist (Pediatric Nephrology) might be suggested as kidney problems are a common cause of high blood pressure in children. Q: Is high blood pressure inherited? A: In most cases there is a strong history that other family members have high blood pressure. If that is the case, treatment is often started early.  |