Headaches in Children: A Guide for Parents

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.