Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Children and teenagers with a common heart-related threat may need to take special precautions when participating in sports. Hi, I'm Dr. Cindy Haines, host of HealthDay TV. High blood pressure - also called hypertension - is very common in America, affecting an estimated one in three adults. However, this problem can also affect children and teenagers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently offered guidance for kids with high blood pressure who want to take part in athletic activities. According to the Academy, young people with prehypertension and most young people with mild high blood pressure can engage in competitive athletics. Those with more severe high blood pressure should avoid certain activities such as martial arts, bodybuilding, wrestling, and rowing until they get their blood pressure under control. These young people should also have regular checkups from their health care provider. It's also extra-important for young athletes with hypertension to avoid substances that can affect their blood pressure. These include alcohol, tobacco, and excessive amounts of caffeinated beverages or energy drinks. In some sports, youths are expected to "bulk up" and increase their weight. The new guidelines discourage this practice, as extra weight can raise the risk of hypertension, as well as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. I'm Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV, with the news that doctors are reading; health news that matters to you.
