Types of hypertension in children
Hypertension can be divided into primary and secondary types according to the cause. Primary hypertension is rare in children, accounting for about 20% to 30%, but there has been an increasing trend in recent years. Secondary hypertension is more common, accounting for about 65% to 80%.
Among secondary hypertension in children, kidney disease accounts for 79%, followed by cardiovascular disease, endocrine disease, nervous system disease and poisoning.
The cause of primary hypertension in children
The cause of primary hypertension is not very clear, and it is currently believed to be related to factors such as genetics, obesity and diet. Children with hypertensive relatives in the family are significantly more likely to suffer from hypertension than children without hypertensive relatives in the family. Obesity can not only cause hypertension, but also increase cardiovascular risk factors such as high cholesterol and hyperlipidemia.
Symptoms of hypertension in children
Children with mild hypertension often have no obvious symptoms, and are often found during physical examinations. Significantly increased blood pressure may cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, irritability, sweating, facial flushing, fatigue and drowsiness.
Severe hypertension may cause convulsions, coma, visual impairment and other symptoms. As the disease worsens, continued high blood pressure can cause damage and dysfunction to organs such as the brain, heart, and kidneys.