Migraine – Headache in Children: Symptoms, Causes, and Tips for Parents



Introduction

When we hear the word "migraine," we often imagine an adult grappling with intense headaches and light sensitivity. But the truth is, migraines aren't just a grown-up problem—they can and do affect children too. Unfortunately, because children may struggle to articulate their symptoms or are often dismissed as having "just a headache," many pediatric migraines go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. These painful episodes can disrupt a child's school performance, sleep, mood, and overall quality of life. Recognizing the signs early and offering the right support can make a world of difference. In this blog, we’ll uncover the reality of childhood migraines, debunk myths, and explore how timely intervention can help young ones lead happier, healthier lives.

Understanding Migraines in Children

Migraines in children are more than just bad headaches—they are a complex neurological condition that can significantly affect a child’s well-being. Understanding migraines in children is the first step toward effective support and management. Unlike the typical image of adult migraines, which often involve intense, one-sided head pain lasting for hours, migraines in children can look quite different. For starters, they tend to have shorter duration—often lasting less than two hours—and the pain is frequently bilateral, meaning it occurs on both sides of the head. This can make it harder to identify as a migraine at first glance. Moreover, associated symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound are common, but children may also experience abdominal pain, dizziness, and mood changes. Because children may not always be able to clearly express their symptoms or understand what’s happening to them, migraines can be mistakenly attributed to stress, vision problems, or behavioral issues. This makes early awareness and understanding of childhood migraines essential for parents, caregivers, and teachers. By recognizing the unique characteristics of pediatric migraines, we can ensure timely diagnosis and better support systems, helping children live more comfortably and confidently.

Symptoms: What to Watch For

Recognizing the symptoms of certain health conditions—like migraines or neurological issues—in children can be challenging, especially when they’re too young to articulate exactly what they’re feeling. Here’s a detailed breakdown of common symptoms to watch for in children:

  • Throbbing or Pulsating Headache: Children may complain of a headache that throbs or pounding, usually on one side of the head. These headaches tend to worsen with physical activity or movement.
  • Sensitivity to Light, Sound, or Smells: Children may become unusually sensitive to bright lights, loud sounds, or strong smells, preferring dark, quiet spaces to ease the discomfort.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: Frequent or unexplained nausea, sometimes with vomiting, often appears alongside severe headaches and could be a sign of migraine.
  • Dizziness or Abdominal Pain: Kids may complain of feeling dizzy, light-headed, or experiencing unexplained stomach pain—symptoms that can accompany migraines.
  • Visual Disturbances or Auras: Blurred vision, flashing lights, zigzag patterns, or blind spots may occur before a migraine, which can be confusing or scary for children.
  • Mood Swings or Fatigue: Sudden mood changes like irritability or sadness, along with tiredness, may occur before or after a migraine episode in children.

    • Young children might not be able to fully explain what they’re feeling. Instead, they may become unusually quiet, clingy, restless, or cry more than usual. Non-verbal cues like covering the head, closing the eyes frequently, or avoiding play could all be signs of discomfort.

    Causes and Triggers
  • Genetic factors such as a family history of migraines or neurological conditions can increase the likelihood of similar issues in children.
  • Changes in brain chemistry and blood flow are also known to contribute to the onset of headaches or migraines.
  • Skipping meals or not drinking enough water can trigger symptoms, especially in active children.
  • Lack of sleep or irregular daily routines may disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, leading to headaches.
  • Emotional factors like stress, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed can play a significant role in triggering episodes.
  • Environmental triggers such as bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells may cause discomfort or initiate symptoms.
  • Certain foods like chocolates, aged cheese, and processed items have been reported to provoke headaches in sensitive individuals.
  • Hormonal changes, particularly during puberty or adolescence, can also act as a trigger—especially in teenage girls.

    • Diagnosis: Getting the Right Help

    When your child often complains of headaches, it’s natural to be worried. Visiting a pediatrician or neurologist ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

  • Clinical History: Doctors begin by reviewing your child’s health history, headache frequency, triggers, and symptoms. A family history of migraines or neurological issues also helps guide the diagnosis process effectively.
  • Headache Diary: Keeping a headache diary helps track the timing, severity, and triggers of headaches. This tool gives doctors helpful insights and supports personalized treatment plans based on observed patterns.
  • Ruling Out Other Conditions: Doctors rule out other causes like sinusitis, epilepsy, or vision issues that mimic migraines. If needed, scans like MRI or CT are done to check for unusual or serious conditions.
  • Red Flag Symptoms – When to Worry: Watch for red flag signs: sudden severe headache, headaches that disrupt sleep, vision issues, numbness, or seizures. These may indicate serious problems needing immediate care.

    • Most childhood headaches are treatable, but timely diagnosis is essential. Consulting a specialist ensures your child gets the right care and relief. Don’t wait—seek expert help if you're concerned.

    Tips for Parents: Helping Your Child Cope

    Supporting a child who experiences frequent headaches or migraines can be challenging, but small steps can make a big difference. Here are some practical tips to help your child manage and cope better:

  • Encourage Open Communication: Teach your child to express when they feel pain or discomfort early on. The sooner they share their symptoms, the quicker you can respond and manage the situation effectively.
  • Maintain a Migraine Diary: Track possible triggers, symptoms, duration, and timing of each episode. This diary can help identify patterns and make consultations with the doctor more insightful.
  • Educate About Warning Signs: Help your child recognize early signs like visual disturbances, dizziness, or mood changes. Understanding these signs can help them seek help before the headache worsens.
  • Create a Calming Environment: During a migraine, provide a quiet, dark, and comfortable space. Limit noise, bright lights, and distractions to help soothe your child and reduce the intensity of the episode.
  • Regular Medical Follow-Up: Stay in touch with your child’s doctor for ongoing guidance, medication adjustments, and monitoring. Regular check-ups ensure the treatment plan remains effective and up to date.

    • With the right approach and support, your child can learn to manage headaches confidently and comfortably.

    Conclusion

    Migraine in children, though distressing, is highly manageable with the right care, timely medical attention, and a supportive environment. As a parent or caregiver, your awareness and involvement play a crucial role in identifying symptoms early, understanding triggers, and ensuring your child receives the proper diagnosis and treatment. Equally important is offering emotional reassurance, helping your child feel safe, heard, and supported throughout their journey. With consistent care, lifestyle adjustments, and expert medical guidance, children with migraines can go on to lead active, fulfilling, and headache-free lives.

    Don’t ignore recurring symptoms—taking action early can make all the difference. To consult with experienced paediatric neurologists and get the right care for your child, visit our Neurology Centre or call 9698 300 300 today.