Parents and carers

What are they?

Headaches are a common complaint in children and can occur for various reasons, including stress, dehydration, or illness. Most headaches in children are mild and temporary. Understanding the causes and symptoms of headaches can help you to effectively manage your child’s discomfort and seek medical advice when necessary.

What symptoms do you get?

Headaches in children may present with a range of symptoms, including a dull or throbbing pain in the head, sensitivity to light or noise, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, or changes in mood or behaviour. Children may also describe their headache as a feeling of pressure or tightness in the head. It’s essential to pay attention to any associated symptoms or patterns, such as headaches that occur at specific times of day or in response to certain triggers, as this information can help determine the cause of the headache.

How are they diagnosed?

Diagnosing the underlying cause of headaches in children often involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and sometimes additional tests or evaluations. Your child’s healthcare provider may ask about the frequency, duration, and severity of the headaches, as well as any associated symptoms or triggers. It can be helpful if you keep a headache diary. They may also inquire about your child’s medical history, lifestyle, and any recent illnesses or injuries. In some cases, further evaluation, such as blood tests, scans, or referral to a specialist, may be necessary to rule out underlying medical conditions or identify potential contributing factors. It can be very helpful to get your child’s eyesight tested by an optician, as untreated visual problems are a common cause of headaches.

What is the treatment?

Treatment for headaches in children depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. In many cases, simple measures such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen may provide relief from mild headaches. It’s essential to follow dosage instructions carefully and avoid giving aspirin to children. For recurring or severe headaches, your child’s healthcare provider may recommend additional treatments or interventions, such as stress management techniques, lifestyle changes, or prescription medications.

When to seek urgent medical attention

While most headaches in children are self-limiting, there are some red flag signs that may indicate a more serious underlying condition and require prompt medical attention:

• Sudden and severe pain
• Headaches accompanied by fever or neck stiffness
• Your child is confused and not their usual self
• Your child appears to have weakness or complains of numbness
• Your child has difficulty speaking or walking
• Your child is complaining about vision changes
• Your child has a seizure
• Your child is under 5 years old (it is uncommon for children to report headaches at this age)

If your child experiences any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

For further information have a look here.

Remember, while occasional headaches are common in children and often resolve with rest and supportive care, persistent or severe headaches may require further evaluation and management by a healthcare professional. It’s important to monitor your child’s symptoms closely and seek medical advice if you have any concerns. The Head Smart Campaign is a great place to get more information, with clear guidance around worrying features of headaches.

What is it?

Minor head injuries are a common occurrence in children, particularly those who are active or participate in sports. While most head injuries are mild and have no complications, they should be taken seriously and monitored carefully.

What symptoms do you get?

Symptoms can vary but may include headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting. Some children may also experience changes in sleep patterns or mood disturbances. It’s essential to monitor your child closely for any new or worsening symptoms, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury.

How is it diagnosed?

It is typically diagnosed based on a combination of the child’s symptoms and a physical examination by a healthcare professional. In very rare cases, additional tests may be done to rule out more serious injuries. It’s important to seek medical advice if your child experiences a head injury, especially if they have lost consciousness, vomited repeatedly, or if their symptoms are severe or worsening.

What is the treatment?

Treatment for a mild head injury focuses on managing symptoms. In most cases, rest and avoiding activities that could worsen symptoms are recommended. You can use over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with headaches or discomfort. It’s also important to ensure your child stays hydrated and gets plenty of rest while recovering from the injury. It is okay for your child to sleep, as long as they can be woken up easily and they have a normal breathing pattern.

Worsening Advice and Advice for Concussions:

If your child’s symptoms worsen or if they develop any concerning signs seek medical attention immediately.

• Your child’s behaviour is different to normal
• Your child appears confused or disoriented
• Your child is unconscious and cannot be woken
• There is bleeding or fluid coming from the ears or nose
• Your child vomits more than twice
• Your child has a seizure
• Your child has a severe headache that does not go away with simple painkillers
• Your child is unable to walk or is uncoordinated

These could be signs of a more serious head injury that requires prompt evaluation and treatment. It’s essential to ensure your child gets a lot of rest and returns to activities gradually. They should avoid physical exertion, sports, and screen time until they feel better. Be sure to monitor your child closely for any new or worsening symptoms.

Remember, most head injuries in children resolve on their own with rest and supportive care and your child should be completely back to normal by 2 weeks following the initial injury. It’s important to seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your child’s symptoms or if their condition is not improving.