Hypertension is high blood pressure.
When the blood pressure, measured with a cuff in the arm or leg, is higher than expected for the child's age and size, hypertension is diagnosed. Not if it is mild. Often the doctor will ask for the blood pressure to be checked several times. If all the readings are high, then diet, exercise or medication will be recommended. If the hypertension is severe, treatment will be started right away and the child might be put in the hospital.