Treat Kids' Headaches Seriously

"My head hurts." Hearing those words from your child can be alarming, especially if your child has many headaches. But don't assume the worst.

"Headaches are extremely common in kids," says Paul Fisher, M.D., a pediatric neurologist in Stanford, Calif. "Most of the time, they're not a symptom of a tumor or serious infection."

But you should take headaches seriously, especially if the pain is intense and migraines run in your family. Migraines can cause throbbing pain, dizziness, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease pain. Still, tell your health care provider about suspected migraines. Some kids may need preventive prescription drugs.

Tension is most common

Youngsters' most common head pain is a tension headache—a dull ache that feels like pressure around the head. Tiredness, stress, pressure at home or school, or conflict with parents or friends can trigger such headaches. They may keep coming until the underlying problem is resolved. Meanwhile, don't overuse medicine.

"Pain relievers like Tylenol are useful, but they can cause a rebound effect, and then you get more headaches," says Dr. Fisher. Limit headache medicine to two to three times a week.

Here are ways to ease pain without drugs:

• Apply an ice pack.

• Have your child practice slow, deep breathing.

• Have your child nap or rest in a dark room.

• Massage your child's neck and shoulders.

Call your health care provider promptly if your child's headache follows a head or face injury or accompanies a fever or stiff neck, vomiting, or problems with vision, balance, or coordination. If headaches increase, get worse, or don't go away with medicine, see your provider.

Head off the ache

A headache could mean a child's life is out of balance. Make sure the child gets:

• Enough sleep. Children who struggle to fall asleep at night—or who get too much or too little sleep—are prone to headaches. Help your child go to sleep and wake up at the same time. Aim for eight to 10 hours sleep.

• Plenty of fluids. Dehydration can lead to headaches.

• Three balanced meals. Skipping meals can cause headaches. Serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Processed foods with MSG or caffeine can trigger head pain. 

• An eye exam.  Children with vision problems can develop headaches trying hard to see clearly.

• Down time. Is a hectic schedule stressing out your child? Balance structured activities with quiet relaxation.

• Worry-free days. Headaches can show something is bothering a child, from bullying at school to problems at home.