Headaches Are Common in Kids, Teens

Treatment often as simple as a glass of water, a good meal or some sleep, expert says

By Robert Preidt

Friday, August 14, 2015

FRIDAY, Aug. 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- A number of things can trigger headaches in children and teens, a pediatrician says.

About 10 percent of school-aged children and up to 27 percent of teens have headaches from time to time, according to Dr. Nick DeBlasio, a pediatrician in Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center's Pediatric Primary Care Clinic.

One of the leading causes of headaches in children and teens is not drinking enough fluids, especially when youngsters are active outside during warm weather. The cure in this case might be as simple as having your child drink more water.

Missing a meal can also trigger a headache. Parents need to make sure their children eat a well-balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Too much caffeine and certain foods can also cause a headache, DeBlasio said.

Lack of sleep is another potential headache trigger. Middle and high school students typically need at least 10 to 12 hours of sleep a night.

High levels of stress at school or at home -- such as a major move or parents getting divorced -- can also lead to headaches.

If a child has difficulty seeing what's going on at the front of the classroom, he or she might suffer eye strain, which can result in a headache. An eye test can help determine if a child's headaches are caused by vision problems, DeBlasio said.

Children are also more likely to get headaches if a parent gets them, too.

If a youngster has a headache, give them over-the-counter ibuprofen and water, DeBlasio said. Follow the instructions on the package for appropriate dosage and do not give it to your child more than three times a week.

If a child's headache persists for a few days or worsens, call a doctor.

SOURCE: Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, news release, July 27, 2015

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