About this topic
Headache is the word used to describe aching or pain in the head. Headaches are common in children. There are many types of headaches. Some of them are: ‚
- Headaches that go along with an illness or injury. These may be caused by a virus or other infection. They can also happen when a child does not get enough to drink.
- Tension type headaches. These are not often bad enough to keep a child from doing daily activities. Your child may feel tightness in the muscles around the head, neck, and shoulders.
- Migraine headaches. These often start off mild and get worse. Your child is often not able to do normal activities. This kind of headache may also have other signs with it like throwing up and being sensitive to light or sound.
Not all headaches are serious, but your child needs to see a doctor. Some kinds may be a sign of a serious problem. Treatment for headaches is based on what is causing them. ‚
View OriginalView Original
View OriginalView Original
What are the causes?
The exact cause of many headaches is not known. Some causes may be illness, infection, head trauma, lack of sleep, or stress. Causes may also vary based on the type of headache. ‚
What are the main signs?
Signs differ based on the type of headache your child has. Your child may have pain that is mild, severe, or dull. Talk with your doctor about your childs signs. ‚
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
The doctor will take your childs history and will do an exam. You will be asked to talk about your child's headaches. The doctor will want to know when they happen and how often your child gets them. It may be hard to find the exact cause. The doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- CT or MRI scan
- Other tests to rule out other health problems that could be causing the headaches
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Goals are to avoid or lower the number of headaches and help ease your childs pain and other signs to give your child a better quality of life. The type of care that is best for your child will depend on the type of headache your child has. This may include: ‚
- Self-care during the headache:
- Cold compresses or ice packs
- Massaging temples and neck
- Deep breathing techniques
- Warm shower
- Sleeping
- Other treatments may include:
- Acupuncture
- Physical therapy
- Massage if the pain is in the neck and shoulders
- Over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin), but not aspirin.
What lifestyle changes are needed?
Some things can lessen the chance for your child to get a headache. Make sure your child: ‚
- Keeps the same sleep routine and gets enough sleep.
- Eats regular meals.
- Drinks lots of fluids, especially when playing in hot weather.
Keep a diary of your childs headaches. Write down when they happen, what causes them, and what helps them. This may help to find what is triggering your child's headache. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
Your childs doctor may order drugs based on the type of headache your child may have. The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain
- Prevent or stop the headache
- Treat upset stomach and throwing up
Children younger than 18 should not take aspirin. This can lead to a very bad health problem. ‚
What problems could happen?
Headache may be related to a more serious health condition. ‚
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Know the factors that may trigger your childs headache.
- Have your child go to sleep and get up at the same time every day.
- Encourage your child to get regular exercise and eat a balanced diet. Good health habits may help prevent headaches.
- Limit screen time. This includes watching TV, using computers, and playing video games.
- Help your child learn to deal with stress. You may want to get professional help to deal with family and school issues.
- Seek help sooner than later
Where can I learn more?
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/kid/ill_injure/sick/headache.html ‚
National Headache Foundation ‚
http://www.headaches.org/education/Tools_for_Sufferers/Headache_-_Frequently_Asked_Questions/HEADACHE_IN_CHILDREN ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/headaches/Pages/Headachesinchildren.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚