Headaches are often regarded as something adults suffer from. In fact, it’s more common in children than you’d think. According to studies, up to 8 percent of preschool children and up to 80 percent of teenagers experience headache at least once a month.
The good news is that headaches, including migraines, tend to be much shorter in children than in adults. It’s worth learning some signs to recognise the symptoms of headache in your little one so that you can help them to feel better again.
There are many different types of headaches and reasons as to why they occur.
Many children develop a headache when they get a feverish illness of any sort. Other causes include inflamed sinuses, toothache and eyesight problems.
Usually headaches aren’t a sign of anything serious. But see your doctor right away if you’re worried by your child’s headache, or it’s accompanied by other symptoms that you’re unsure about.
Here are some simple steps to help your child get through a headache or migraine attack:
- Lie them down in a room that’s quiet and dark.
- Place a moist cloth over their eyes or forehead.
- Ask them to take deep breaths.
- Encourage them to take a nap – sleep will help to speed up recovery.
- Encourage them to eat or drink something (but not drinks containing caffeine).
Giving your child a simple pain reliever such as Nurofen for Children can help ease their discomfort and relieve their headache symptoms.
Always read the label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional. Do not give to babies under 3 months of age. Seek medical advice for children under 12 months of age.
All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health related matters please contact your doctor.
This information is general in nature and not intended as a substitute for medical advice.
Always rely on your doctor for diagnosis and seek his or her advice if your or your child’s symptoms persist.
- Headache Australia. Headache in Children and Adolescents – A Frequent Symptom [Internet]. Accessed 9 September 2014.
- The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. Headaches in Children and Teenagers [Internet]. Accessed 9 September 2014.
- NHS UK. Children’s Headache [Internet]. Accessed 9 September 2014.
This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.
Always read the label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.