Headache in children

Overview

A headache is pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. In children, headaches are common and usually not serious, but they can sometimes be a sign of another problem.

Yes, headaches are very common in children. About half of all school-age children have at least one headache a year, and they become more frequent during teenage years.

Headaches can affect children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. They are slightly more common in girls after puberty.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain or pressure in the head, which may feel dull, sharp, or throbbing
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Feeling sick or vomiting
• Tiredness or trouble concentrating

Symptoms in children

• Younger children may not say 'headache' — they may cry, hold their head, or seem irritable.
• Children often feel pain on both sides of the head, especially in tension headaches.
• Migraines in children can be shorter than in adults and may be followed by tiredness.

Symptoms in older adults

• This section is not applicable for children. Headaches in older adults are a separate topic.

Causes

Main causes

• Tension headaches from stress, tiredness, or too much screen time
• Migraines, which often run in families
• Dehydration or not eating enough
• Illnesses like colds, flu, or sinus infections
• Eye strain, for example from uncorrected vision problems

Risk factors

• Stress at school or home
• Poor sleep habits or not enough sleep
• Skipping meals or eating irregularly
• Family history of migraines
• Frequent use of painkillers (can cause medication-overuse headaches)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Headache with fever and stiff neck
• Headache after a fall or bump on the head
• Headache with vision changes, like double vision or blurring
• Headache that wakes your child from sleep or is worse in the morning

Book a routine appointment if:

• Headaches happening more than once a week
• Headaches that stop your child from going to school or playing
• You are worried about your child's headaches, even if mild
• Your child has a chronic condition like epilepsy or sickle cell disease

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your child's headaches — when they happen, how they feel, and what seems to trigger them. They will also do a physical exam, including checking your child's eyes, ears, and neck.

Tests that may be done

• In most cases, no tests are needed.
• If needed, your doctor may suggest vision tests, blood tests, or imaging such as an MRI scan to rule out other causes.

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will ask you and your child many questions. It helps to keep a headache diary for a few weeks before the visit, noting when headaches happen, how long they last, and what helps.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what type of headache your child has. For most headaches, simple measures at home are enough. For migraines, a doctor may recommend prescription medicines to prevent or treat attacks.

Self-care at home

• Make sure your child drinks plenty of water
• Encourage rest in a quiet, dark room
• Apply a cool cloth to your child's forehead
• Offer a small snack if they haven't eaten for a while
• Gentle massage of the shoulders and neck can ease tension headaches

Medical treatments

For frequent or severe headaches, a doctor may prescribe medications to stop a headache when it starts or to prevent headaches from happening. These are only for children with regular, disruptive headaches. Always follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used occasionally, but never give more than the recommended amount for your child's age.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not needed for headaches. In very rare cases, if a headache is caused by a structural problem like a brain tumor, surgery may be considered — but this is extremely rare in children.

Living with this condition

Most children with headaches can lead a normal life. It helps to identify and avoid triggers. A consistent daily routine, including regular meals and enough sleep, can reduce headaches.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a consistent sleep schedule — go to bed and wake up at the same time each day
• Limit screen time, especially before bed
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques or talking about worries
• Encourage physical activity, but avoid overexertion

Diet and exercise

Eating regular, balanced meals is important. Skipping meals can trigger headaches. Staying active helps reduce stress and can prevent tension headaches. Just make sure your child drinks enough water during exercise.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Chronic headaches can affect your child's mood, school performance, and social life. They may feel frustrated or anxious. It's important to talk openly with your child and involve the school if needed.

Prevention

Not all headaches can be prevented, but you can reduce how often they happen by keeping a healthy routine and avoiding known triggers. A headache diary can help find patterns.

Complications

If left untreated

• Rarely, frequent headaches can lead to school absenteeism and social difficulties
• Medication-overuse headaches if painkillers are used too often
• Untreated underlying causes (like vision problems) can persist

Long-term outlook

For the vast majority of children, headaches improve over time. Many children outgrow migraines or learn to manage them well. With the right support and healthy habits, your child can lead a full, active life.

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