Could Your Child Really Be Having Migraines?

If your child has repeated, throbbing headaches, you may have wondered whether someone so young could actually have migraines. The short answer is yes. About one in 10 school-age kids are migraine sufferers. Even preschoolers can develop the condition.

Migraine symptoms in children can include:

• Repeated bouts of pulsating pain on one or both sides of the head
• Nausea, vomiting and belly pain, which are sometimes worse than the headache
• Sensitivity to light and/or noise
• Vision changes, such as seeing flashes of light, which occur before the headache

If you notice these symptoms in your little one, consult your child’s pediatrician. If the problem is migraines, the doctor may recommend habits that help reduce attacks, such as keeping a regular schedule for meals and bedtime. Taking a nap may help once a migraine starts. In addition, the provider may prescribe over-the-counter or prescription medication.