HomeAnswersCardiologyblood pressureWhy is there raised blood pressure in an 18-year-old?

What causes raised blood pressure in an 18-year-old?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Divya Banu M

Published At July 19, 2020
Reviewed AtJune 27, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 18 year old male. Off late experiencing high blood pressure ranging from 160/97 mmHg to 150/95 mmHg and some isolated readings 120/83 mmHg and 130/90 mmHg. But the consistent readings are on the higher side. Echocardiogram is normal. And so is ECG. Few months back thyroid was also normal. The body weight is also within the limits comparable to the height of person. However, occasional events of high anxiety do occur. My question is whether the BP reading seems to be fluctuating to the higher side even though possible anxiety connections were abated. What can be the possible diagnosis?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You seem to be having labile hypertension, at your age it is not common to have a high blood pressure as in the 160's or 150's as you have noted. The one cause that needs to be investigated is kidney disease, therefore it is important to get blood tests pertinent to kidney function (serum creatinine and blood urea done as well as imaging studies,(ultrasound of the kidney). Also, there is a cardiac condition known as coarctation of aorta, which can cause high BP at this age but an echocardiogram will usually rule out that. Other causes are high salt intake and caffeine intake, but I am sure, you have ruled that out.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vivek S Narayan Pillai
Dr. Vivek S Narayan Pillai

Cardiology

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