It’s not uncommon for children to experience headaches. Just like adults, they can develop head pain due to stress, illness, or fatigue. In many cases, these headaches are mild and short-lived. But sometimes, a child’s headache may be a sign of a more serious issue that would benefit from medical attention.
As a parent, knowing when to seek care is essential. Early evaluation can help prevent complications and ensure your child receives the support they need to feel better and stay healthy.
Common Causes of Headaches in Children
Most headaches in children are tension-type headaches or migraines, which are often manageable with rest and basic care. These headaches can be triggered by:
- Dehydration or skipping meals
- Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns
- Stress, anxiety, or school-related pressures
- Vision problems such as an undiagnosed need for glasses
- Colds, flu, or sinus infections that create head pressure
If the headache improves with hydration, rest, and over-the-counter medication, there is usually no cause for concern. However, persistent or worsening headaches may require further evaluation.
Warning Signs That Require Immediate Attention
Some headache symptoms in children warrant prompt medical evaluation. Call your pediatrician or seek emergency care if your child experiences:
- A sudden, severe headache—often described as the “worst headache ever”
- Head pain that wakes your child from sleep or is worse in the morning and improves throughout the day
- Headaches after a fall or head injury, especially if accompanied by drowsiness or confusion
- Vomiting, visual changes, or dizziness accompanying a headache
- Signs of neurological involvement, such as confusion, difficulty speaking, walking, or seizures
- Head pain with a fever and stiff neck, which may indicate meningitis
These symptoms could suggest a more serious condition, including brain inflammation, bleeding, or increased intracranial pressure, and should never be ignored.
When to Schedule a Neurological Evaluation
Occasional headaches are common, but recurring or debilitating headaches in children deserve closer attention. Consider scheduling a consultation with a pediatric neurologist if:
- Your child has frequent headaches that interfere with school, sleep, or daily life
- Over-the-counter medications don’t provide relief
- Headaches are accompanied by weakness, numbness, balance issues, or other neurological symptoms
- Your family has a history of migraines or neurological disorders
A neurological evaluation can help determine whether further testing or treatment is needed to identify the root cause of your child’s symptoms.
What to Expect During a Neurological Evaluation
If your child sees a neurology specialist, the first step typically will be a comprehensive review of their medical history and symptoms. You may be asked to share details such as:
- How often the headaches occur
- When they started and how long they last
- Any known triggers, such as stress, certain foods, or lack of sleep
- Your child’s behavior and activities leading up to the headache
A physical and neurological exam will follow, and in some cases, doctors may recommend imaging studies (like an MRI or CT scan) to rule out underlying conditions.
Managing Headaches at Home: What Parents Can Do
For headaches that are infrequent and mild, you can employ several home care strategies to help reduce their frequency and severity:
- Encourage hydration throughout the day, especially during sports or hot weather
- Promote consistent sleep routines and ensure your child gets enough rest
- Limit screen time, especially in the evening
- Help manage stress with calming routines, reduced overscheduling, or open conversations
- Use age-appropriate pain relief (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen) only as directed by your pediatrician
Keeping a headache diary can be extremely helpful—log when the headaches occur, what your child was doing beforehand, what they ate, how long it lasted, and what helped. This record can provide valuable insight for you and your child’s provider.
When in Doubt, Reach Out
If you’re unsure whether your child’s headaches are typical or something more, don’t hesitate to ask. Headaches that interfere with daily life or come with other concerning symptoms deserve a closer look.
Legacy Pediatrics in Rochester is experienced in evaluating pediatric headaches and neurological concerns with the care and attention every child deserves. Call (585) 568-8330 to schedule a consultation today to better understand what’s going on, and how to help your child feel better.
