children s health issues
High Blood Pressure Emergencies in Children
Diagnosis of Hypertensive Emergencies in Children
Blood pressure measurement Tests to evaluate organ damage During a suspected hypertensive emergency, doctors use an oscillometer to Diagnosis rather than using a stethoscope. The oscillometer records blood pressure automatically and quickly, which helps with the measuring that is needed (every 2 to 3 minutes). Blood pressure is measured again using a Doctors take a Medical History , which includes questions about the child's current symptoms, any disorders the child has, and any drugs the child takes. A thorough Physical Examination and standard blood and urine tests are done. Tests are also done to determine whether vital organs are damaged and, if so, how much damage is present. Tests include Electrocardiography (ECG), chest x-ray, and, if possible, an echocardiography to check for heart disorders Urinalysis to screen for kidney abnormalities Blood tests to check for kidney damage or hormonal abnormalities Complete blood count to check for abnormal numbers of blood cells, particularly platelets (which help blood clot) Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head to check for a mass or hemorrhage in the brain and to rule out other possible causes of symptoms related to the brain Drug and pregnancy tests in adolescents If the child's high blood pressure has not previously been diagnosed or evaluated, other Diagnosis can be done later. 