Many parents feel confused when their child complains of frequent headaches that do not go away easily. While some may assume it is only due to fatigue or lack of sleep, the reality is that a significant number of children suffer from migraine, a neurological disorder that can begin before the age of 10 and affect the child’s academic and social life.
اضافة اعلان
According to a report published by Harvard Health, understanding childhood migraine requires special awareness because its symptoms and presentation differ from those in adults. Although not rare, migraines demand careful attention; early diagnosis, family cooperation with doctors, and maintaining healthy habits are key to reducing the child’s suffering and enabling them to live normally.
Symptoms That May Puzzle Parents
Migraines in children can present as pressing or throbbing pain on both sides of the head, often accompanied by nausea, loss of appetite, and sensitivity to light or sound. Some children prefer lying down in a dark, quiet room until the pain subsides. Another important clue is that the child may appear very tired or irritable hours before an attack.
Why Do Migraines Occur in Children?
The exact cause remains unclear, but current theories suggest that children’s brains may overreact to physical or environmental triggers. These can be as simple as skipping a meal, school-related stress, or certain foods. Genetics also play a role—if one parent has migraines, the child is more likely to develop them.
The Role of Prevention
Parents can help by tracking events that precede attacks to identify and avoid personal triggers. Maintaining healthy routines—regular sleep, balanced meals, hydration, and physical activity—can reduce the severity and frequency of episodes.
Managing Attacks
When a migraine begins, the best approach is to let the child rest in a quiet, darkened room and apply a cold compress. If this is insufficient, doctors may recommend safe pain relievers in specific doses. However, overuse should be avoided to prevent medication-overuse headaches.
Advanced Medical Options
For cases that do not respond to simple measures, doctors may prescribe triptans, proven effective in children as young as six. Preventive treatments may also be considered when attacks become frequent enough to disrupt schooling or daily life.
When to Worry (Warning Signs)
Parents should seek urgent medical care if the headache is accompanied by:
Repeated vomiting
Neck stiffness
Difficulty speaking or moving
These may signal a more serious underlying condition.
