Headache in Children

When to seek help for headaches in children

While the occasional headache is nothing to worry about, sometimes it can be a symptom of a more serious condition. That is why it is important to pay attention to the symptoms of your child's headache, and to see a doctor if the headache seems unusual, occurs often, or disrupts his daily activities.

The following symptoms should prompt you to seek medical attention:

• Headaches that wake a child from sleep or occur in the early morning
• Early morning vomiting without nausea
• Worsening or more frequent headaches
• Personality changes
• Complaints such as "this is the worst headache I've ever had!"
• The headache is different than previous headaches
• Headaches with fever or a stiff neck
• Headaches with changes in vision
• Headaches that follow an injury
• Headaches with seizures or fainting episodes. In these cases, cranial imaging or other investigation may be needed to exclude intracranial causes.
  

Treatment options for headaches in children

Treatment depends on your child’s age and the type, severity and frequency of headaches.

Over-the-counter and prescription medicines can treat your child’s headache effectively. These include acetaminophen and ibuprofen. For children with more severe headaches, your doctor may prescribe pain relievers or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen and ketorolac tromethamine.