Headaches can happen to children, too. While an occasional headache is often not a cause for concern, recurring or worsening headaches can leave parents wondering when it’s time to seek help. Knowing what to watch for can help families feel more prepared to support their child.
We’re grateful to Prisma Health and Dr. Blake Windsor, MD, pediatric pain medicine physician and board-certified headache specialist, for sharing guidance on childhood headaches, common triggers, and when families should talk with a doctor.
Common Causes of Headaches
For school-aged children and older kids, migraines and tension-type headaches are among the most common causes of recurring headaches. Migraines can look different in children than they do in adults. A child may become pale, look tired or sick, feel nauseous or want to stop playing and lie down.
Common migraine triggers can include:
- Not drinking enough water
- Skipping meals
- Poor sleep
- Stress or anxiety
- Changes in routine
Keeping track of when headaches happen and what was going on beforehand can help families and healthcare providers identify possible patterns.
When Should You Call the Doctor?
Recurring headaches that come and go over months are often caused by migraines or tension-type headaches. However, a headache that is progressively getting worse should be evaluated.
It’s also a good idea to talk with your child’s doctor if headaches are interfering with everyday life, such as causing them to miss school, activities or time with friends.
Some symptoms require more urgent attention. Seek emergency medical care if a headache occurs with concerning symptoms such as a seizure, fever with significant changes in behavior, fainting, weakness, or difficulty speaking.
Healthy Habits Can Help
Dr. Windsor notes that some of the most helpful approaches to managing childhood migraines don’t involve medication. Encourage regular meals, plenty of water, healthy sleep habits, and opportunities to manage stress. These everyday habits can help children identify and avoid some of their individual triggers.
If your child experiences frequent or severe headaches, talk with their pediatrician before starting a treatment plan. Your healthcare provider can help determine what may be causing the headaches and what approach is appropriate for your child.
At TCMU, we know that helping children thrive means paying attention to both their physical and emotional well-being. When something doesn’t feel right, listening to your child and knowing when to ask for help are important parts of caring for them.
Content adapted and shared with permission from Prisma Health and Dr. Blake Windsor, MD. Original article: “Should I be concerned about my child’s headache?” published August 18, 2022.
