Childhood Headaches

From stress to screentime - what triggers them?

By Dr. Samir Jamil

Headaches are common in children and are usually not serious, though they can be disruptive. More than 70% of kids report experiencing a significant headache by age 15. Migraine headaches affect about 10% of children between ages 5 and 15 and 28% of teens between 15 and 19. Headaches in children can generally be categorized into three types: tension, migraine, and cluster headaches.

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type in children and are usually mild to moderate. They are often described as a non-throbbing tightness in the muscles of the head and neck. Unlike migraines, tension headaches are not typically associated with nausea or vomiting and are not worsened by physical activity. They can last from 30 minutes to several days. Common triggers include:

Stress and anxiety: Persistent stress can contribute to headaches.

Eye strain: Prolonged screen time on computers, smartphones, or TVs can cause eye fatigue.

Lack of sleep: Sleep deprivation may lead to muscle tension and headaches.

Poor posture: Sitting or standing incorrectly can strain neck muscles.

Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake can cause muscle contractions and headaches.

Certain foods and additives: Cheese, chocolate, caffeine, MSG, and nitrites can trigger headaches in some children.

Preventive measures include adequate sleep, proper hydration, regular meals, and exercise. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help but should be used sparingly.

When to Seek Medical Advice

• Severe or frequent headaches that do not respond to OTC medications
• Headaches accompanied by fever, stiff neck, personality changes, confusion, or vision changes
• Headaches that interfere with daily activities
• Headaches following a head injury

Migraine Headaches

Migraines are often described as pulsating or throbbing pain and can occur on one or both sides of the head. The pain worsens with physical activity and is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and increased sensitivity to light and sound.

Migraines have a strong genetic component: if one parent has migraines, a child has a 50% chance of developing them; if both parents have migraines, the likelihood rises to 75%. Triggers are similar to those for tension headaches, and preventive strategies—adequate sleep, stress reduction, balanced nutrition—can help. Low blood sugar may also trigger migraines, so maintaining stable blood sugar through diet is beneficial. Magnesium supplementation may help prevent and reduce migraine severity.

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are the least common and are rare in children under 10. Key features include:

• Occurring in clusters of five or more episodes, ranging from one every other day to eight per day
• Sharp, stabbing pain on one side of the head lasting less than three hours
• Accompanied by tearing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and agitation

Conclusion

While headaches in children can be distressing, most are manageable with proper care and lifestyle adjustments. Parents should monitor their child’s symptoms and seek medical attention when headaches are severe, frequent, or accompanied by concerning signs. With early intervention, education, and healthy habits, most children can lead active, headache-free lives.