What causes high blood pressure in young adults

[Andrew Sgorlon]

My Girlfriend who is 21 years old  has been told by her doctor that she has had   high blood pressure readings for the past year (Its the bottom number that is high) . She is in good health and does not smoke. My question is how can someone at that age have high blood pressure. She is on birth controll pills can that be a factor?

   Her doctor has taken blood samples from her and sent then to a speciallist.

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear Andrew,

Birth control pills may do this as can extra weight or this may be essential hypertension ( Hypertension that is genetic).  

It is also important to rule out renal artery stenosis if her levels have shot up recently or are particularly difficulat to control with medication.

[baseballmom1227]

A related discussion, blood pressure was started.