Chelsea Lee
Medical Research Editor
WhereismyDoctor.com

Kids With Migraines

July 6th, 2012

Even for the toughest adults, migraines are one of the most debilitating health issues to deal with. But did you know your child could be suffering from them as well?

Migraines are the result of a combination of environmental triggers and genetics. Children whose parents regularly get migraines have a 50% chance of getting migraines themselves.

It is estimated that about 60% of children are prone to having migraines starting as young as age five. About 10% of young girls suffer from migraines, while only 6% of young boys experience this type of headache.

While adults often complain of seeing bright flashing lights and experiencing a sensitivity to sound during a migraine, children usually turn pale and vomit and have a sensitivity to smell.

Children with migraines also crave more sleep.

Dealing with a migraine is very important as it is a progressive disorder, meaning each migraine gets worse and more intense than the last one.

Recognizing potential symptoms of a migraine is the first step to helping a child avoid a lifetime of painful migraines.

Your child’s pediatrician is the best person to diagnose a child migraine, perhaps through a brain CT scan. If pediatric care is inconclusive, you may need to see a neurology specialist.

The sooner a child is treated for migraines the easier it is to slow down the progression of the headaches.

Luckily, medication is usually not needed in treating children with migraines.

Just a few lifestyle changes such as regular sleep and eating habits and consistent physical exercise can make a big difference in the occurrence and severity of the migraines.

Contact a pediatrician to learn more.