Tension Headaches in Children

Children can get tension headaches just as adults do. Daily stress, increased computer time and other lifestyle habits can bring on tension headaches. With advancing technology and the many options modern life can offer, children can become overwhelmed. There are signs and symptoms to recognize if you believe your child is suffering from tension headaches, as well as ways to treat them. Always consult your doctor if you believe your child is suffering from frequent headaches.

Causes

• Tension headaches in children are caused by muscle tension found in the neck, shoulders and head. They also can be caused by staying in one position for too long. Watching television or playing the computer or video games can cause a tension headache. Headaches also can be caused by hunger, problems found within the nose, ears, throat and even overexertion.

Symptoms

• Sometimes it is hard to tell if a child is suffering from a tension headache. Children may seem more irritable, cry easily or become sick to their stomachs. The common age group for children to start getting tension headaches is usually 10 or older. The headache may begin early in the day and eventually grow worse by evening.

  Children can also suffer from other types of headaches, such as sinus headaches or migraines. The symptoms of these are different from tension headaches. Sinus headaches often occur on one side of the head and the pain is across the forehead and near the eye or nose. If a child develops a migraine headache, it starts in a localized area and moves near the eye or temple. Movement and sound may increase the pain and sensitivity of a migraine.

Diagnosis

• If you feel your child may be suffering from a tension headache, take him to the doctor. The doctor will do a complete physical examination and listen to his symptoms. He may ask questions about a child's day. A doctor may ask the child to keep a diary to help pinpoint what may be causing the tension headaches.

Treatment

• Doctors may recommend children take over-the-counter medicines for headaches, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Some pain medications have children's formulas. You should not give your child aspirin because of the dangers of Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal disease that has been linked to aspirin consumption in children. Follow your doctor's instructions when giving your child pain medication. The dosage usually depends on your child's age and weight.

What Parents Can Do at Home

• Keep children on a schedule to be sure they are getting the proper amount of sleep. Small children need at least 10 hours of sleep--especially during the school year. Always make sure they are eating healthy and getting a nutritious breakfast every morning. Avoid too much stress. If a child still continues to have frequent headaches after such changes, always consult with your doctor.