What is a key characteristic of pediatric hypertension?

Pediatric hypertension is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it usually presents without noticeable symptoms, making it easy to overlook or misdiagnose. Many children with high blood pressure may not exhibit any obvious signs, which can lead to the condition going undetected for extended periods. This lack of symptoms can result in significant cardiovascular issues over time, including damage to the heart and arteries, and increases the risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, stroke, or renal complications.

In contrast, the other options suggest characteristics that do not typically align with pediatric hypertension. The condition is not highly symptomatic or associated with severe symptoms that would prompt immediate concern. Marked weight gain is not a consistent feature and does not necessarily correlate with hypertension since children of various body types can develop elevated blood pressure. Additionally, while obesity is a risk factor, pediatric hypertension can also affect children who are not classified as overweight, making the notion that it only occurs in overweight children misleading.