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Condition

Pediatric Hypertension

Key Points About High Blood Pressure in Children

  • High blood pressure means that the pressure inside the arteries is too high. This may harm the arteries and cause the heart to work harder.
  • High blood pressure often has no known cause. Some health conditions and medicines may cause high blood pressure.
  • Blood pressure changes. Your child's provider will check it over a period of days or weeks before making a diagnosis of high blood pressure.
  • Lifestyle changes like weight loss, exercise and healthy eating can help to lower high blood pressure.

Appointments

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Hypertension Detection and Treatment at Children's National Hospital

The Hypertension Detection and Treatment Program at Children's National Hospital offers specialized care for children with high blood pressure. Discover more about the treatment we offer.

Woman holding a child talking to a provider.
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PATIENT STORY

Winona's Story

Providers Who Treat Hypertension

Departments that Treat Hypertension

Weight-Loss Surgery (Bariatric Surgery) Program

Learn about bariatric (weight-loss) surgery for children and teens at our teen-centered Bariatric Surgery Program.

Children's National nephrologist Asha Moudgil, M.D., listens to the heart of a little girl.

Nephrology

Learn how our highly skilled team works across divisions to manage the full range of kidney diseases in children, including dialysis and kidney transplantation.

Dr. Harahsheh checks pulse of patient.

Cardiology

The pediatric heart experts at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., provide advanced care for unborn babies, children and young adults with heart conditions.