Headaches in children can be caused by the strong sun, constant use of cell phones or computers, listening to very loud music, vision problems or poor sleep, for example.
Headaches in children can appear from a very early age, but children do not always know how to express themselves and say what they are feeling. However, parents may suspect that the child is unwell when they notice that he or she stops doing activities that he or she really enjoys, such as playing with friends or playing football, for example.
If a child says that their head hurts, parents can make sure it is a severe headache or even a migraine by asking them to make some effort, such as jumping up and down, for example, to see if the pain worsens, because one of the characteristics of migraines in children is the increase in pain when exertion. Learn about the different types of headaches.
Main causes
Headaches in children may be associated with constant cerebral or visual stimuli, such as:
- Strong sun or high temperature;
- Excessive use of TV, computer or tablet;
- TV or radio sound too loud;
- Consumption of foods rich in caffeine, such as chocolate and cola;
- Stress, like having a test at school;
- Sleepless nights;
- Vision problems.
It is important that the cause of the child’s headache is identified so that measures can be taken to alleviate the pain and prevent it from happening again.
How to relieve headache naturally
Headache treatment in children can be done with simple measures, so that the pain goes away naturally, such as:
- Take an invigorating bath;
- Place a towel soaked in cold water on the child’s forehead;
- Offer the child water or tea. Discover some home remedies for headaches.
- Turn off the television and radio and do not let your child watch television for more than 2 hours a day;
- Rest in a low-light, well-ventilated place for some time;
- Eat calming foods such as bananas, cherries, salmon and sardines.
Other options for treating headaches in children are cognitive behavioral therapy, guided by a psychologist, and medications, such as Amitriptyline, which should only be used under the guidance of a pediatrician.
When to go to the doctor
It is recommended to take the child to the doctor when the child says several times a day that their head hurts for 3 days in a row or when other associated symptoms appear, such as vomiting, nausea or diarrhea, for example. In these cases, it is important to take the child to the pediatrician so that an evaluation and additional tests can be carried out and treatment can begin. In some cases, it may be recommended to consult a neurologist. Learn more about constant headaches.
During a medical consultation, it is important that parents provide all possible information about their child’s headache, stating how many times a week the child complains of head pain, the intensity and type of pain, what they did to make the headache worse. child stopped feeling pain and how long it took for the pain to go away. Furthermore, it is important to inform whether the child was taking any medication and whether there is anyone in the family who frequently complains of headaches or has migraines.
Based on the information provided during the consultation, the doctor may request some tests, such as MRI, so that he can establish the best treatment.
