Study: Measuring Sodium In Child's Urine may Help Doctors Identify Risk for High Blood Pressure

A study has found that measuring sodium in a child's urine may help doctors identify those at risk for having high blood pressure later in life. The study was presented at the American Heart Association High Blood Pressure Research Scientific Sessions 2013. In a small study, researchers used a new protocol to quickly screen 19 children who were 10-19-year-olds.

Researchers found that of the eight who retained sodium seven had high blood pressure.The inability to properly excrete sodium in the body can occur during stress, such as when kids get nervous while in a doctor's office, so the children were asked to provide a urine sample before and after their visit to a physician. Sodium retention increases fluid in the blood vessels, which can impact blood pressure. High blood pressure can develop over time if the body can't properly regulate sodium, and is a serious risk factor for heart disease and stroke.