High Blood Pressure in Children: Causes and Natural Remedies

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often considered an adult health issue. However, it is increasingly being diagnosed in children, raising concerns among parents and healthcare professionals in Nigeria.

TJ News Nigeria reports that recent studies by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian health bodies indicate a growing number of hypertension cases in children, mainly linked to changing lifestyles, poor diets, and increasing childhood obesity.

In this guide, we examine the causes, symptoms, and effective natural remedies to help manage and prevent high blood pressure in children.

What is High Blood Pressure in Children?

High blood pressure in children occurs when the force of blood against the artery walls remains consistently too high. While the causes may differ from adults, the risks can lead to severe complications if left untreated, including kidney damage, heart disease, and stroke later in life.

Normal Blood Pressure for Children

Blood pressure readings in children depend on:

• Age
• Gender
• Height percentile

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a blood pressure reading above the 90th percentile for a child’s age, gender, and height may indicate hypertension.

Causes of High Blood Pressure in Children

1. Obesity

One of the leading causes of hypertension in Nigerian children today is obesity. Excess body weight puts strain on the heart and arteries, leading to elevated blood pressure.

2. Unhealthy Diets

Consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and salty snacks contributes to sodium overload, a key factor in high blood pressure.

3. Lack of Physical Activity

Sedentary lifestyles, especially with increased screen time (TV, smartphones, and video games), reduce cardiovascular fitness.

4. Family History

Children with parents or close relatives with hypertension are at higher risk due to genetic predisposition.

5. Underlying Medical Conditions

Some children develop secondary hypertension from conditions such as:

• Kidney disease
• Heart defects
• Hormonal disorders

Signs and Symptoms

Many children with high blood pressure may not show clear symptoms. However, some warning signs include:

• Frequent headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Vision problems

Healthcare providers recommend routine blood pressure checks during pediatric visits for early detection.

Natural Remedies to Manage High Blood Pressure in Children

While medical treatment may be necessary for severe cases, natural remedies and lifestyle changes play a major role in controlling childhood hypertension.

1. Healthy Nigerian Diet

Introduce more natural, fresh foods to your child’s diet:

• Fruits: Oranges, bananas, pawpaw
• Vegetables: Ugu (fluted pumpkin), spinach, garden eggs
• Whole grains: Ofada rice, oatmeal
• Healthy proteins: Beans, fish (especially sardines and mackerel)

Limit: Processed foods, instant noodles, sugary snacks, and salty crisps.

2. Reduce Salt Intake

Excessive salt is a major contributor to high blood pressure. Nigerian soups like egusi or ogbono should be prepared with moderate salt and seasoning.

3. Regular Physical Activity

Encourage at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily:

• Playing football or running
• Swimming
• Dancing or skipping

4. Maintain Healthy Weight

If a child is overweight, gradual, healthy weight loss through diet and exercise is crucial for reducing blood pressure.

5. Encourage Hydration

Water should replace sugary soft drinks. Proper hydration helps maintain optimal blood pressure and overall health.

6. Limit Screen Time

Reducing time spent on phones, video games, and TV encourages more physical movement and improves cardiovascular health.

7. Regular Monitoring

Parents should routinely monitor their children’s blood pressure, especially if there’s a family history of hypertension.

When to See a Doctor

If lifestyle changes do not help or if the child exhibits severe symptoms like chest pain, persistent headaches, or difficulty breathing, immediate medical consultation is advised.

The Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) recommends that children undergo annual health checks to monitor cardiovascular health, especially in urban areas where lifestyle-related risks are higher.

Final Thoughts

High blood pressure in children is a growing health challenge, but with early detection and natural lifestyle adjustments, it can be managed and even reversed in many cases. Nigerian parents are advised to promote healthier meals, encourage active play, and work with healthcare professionals for regular monitoring.

For more parenting health guides, visit TJ News Nigeria regularly.

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