What Should Be the Average Teenager Blood Pressure?

In order to live, every person needs blood pressure. Without blood pressure, blood wouldn't be able to flow through the body to carry oxygen to important organs. High blood pressure is rare in teens, but it's important to have it checked regularly.

Measuring

• Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (written mm Hg), with an instrument called a sphygmomanometer. For example 112/55 mm Hg. The first number is called systolic pressure, which measures the peak of each heartbeat. The second number is called diastolic pressure, which shows when the heart rests between beats.

Normal Blood Pressure

• Normal blood pressure for a teenager is 90-120 mmHg for systolic pressure and 50-80 mmHg for diastolic pressure.

High blood pressure

• The medical term for high blood pressure is hypertension. Having hypertension means your systolic and diastolic pressure are above normal.

Causes

• Sometimes teenagers develop high blood pressure because it runs in the family.
  Obesity and lack of exercise increase the chance of hypertension. Teens who drink alcohol and use illegal drugs are also at risk of developing high blood pressure. Some medications such as birth-control pills and steroids can cause hypertension.

Prevention/Solution

• Exercise regularly to maintain a normal weight. Eat healthily. Don't smoke or take drugs. Avoid salty foods. Don't drink alcohol. Have your blood pressure checked regularly.