Teens & High Blood Pressure: 5 Things Parents Need to Know by Holly Budde

My daughter didn’t pass last year's athletic physical because of her blood pressure. During months of medical testing, I learned a few key elements about kids' heart health. 

Here are five things her doctor explained worth sharing:

• High blood pressure can be a sign of health problems with the heart, kidneys or other issues. Activity levels aren't always a gauge of risk. No one is exempt.

• Sodium intake is a daily average.

• Blood pressure can cause weight gain or loss or vice versa.

• Headaches and nausea during activity need to be checked immediately.

If your teen is showing signs of elevated blood pressure, have them checked by a pediatric cardiologist immediately. I am happy to report my daughter is feeling good again and, with the help of her doctor, she was back on the team!

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