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Short- and long-term physiologic and pharmacologic control of blood pressure in pediatric patients

Howard Trachtman1

  • 1Division of Nephrology, Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, Long Island Campus for the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New Hyde Park, NY, USA.

Integrated Blood Pressure Control
|September 28, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric hypertension is increasing due to improved survival and rising obesity rates. This review covers nonpharmacologic and drug treatments for managing high blood pressure in children and adolescents.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Cardiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Rising incidence of hypertension in the general population, including children and adolescents.
  • Increased prevalence linked to improved survival from serious illnesses and the epidemic of obesity and metabolic syndrome.
  • Growing need for effective blood pressure management strategies in pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize key aspects of hypertension treatment in pediatric patients.
  • To outline long-term management strategies for pediatric hypertension.
  • To review both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic treatment options.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on pediatric hypertension.
  • Analysis of current treatment guidelines and evidence.
  • Synthesis of information on nonpharmacologic and drug therapies.

Main Results:

  • Hypertension in children is multifactorial, influenced by systemic illnesses and lifestyle factors like obesity.
  • Effective management requires a combination of lifestyle modifications and, often, pharmacologic intervention.
  • Long-term monitoring and adherence are crucial for successful outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric hypertension is a growing concern requiring comprehensive management approaches.
  • Nonpharmacologic strategies, including lifestyle changes, are foundational.
  • Pharmacologic treatment is essential for many pediatric patients to control elevated blood pressure and prevent long-term complications.

Keywords:
hypertensionpediatricpharmacologicrenoprotection

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