What Should I Do If My Child Has a Headache?

In daily life, children are prone to various discomforts due to their relatively weak immunity and incomplete organ development. When children experience headaches, parents can choose some physical methods to help relieve their pain, such as massage and hot compresses. If the pain is severe, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician for examination, treatment based on the underlying cause, and possibly the use of painkillers.

Headache refers to a symptom caused by the stimulation of the pain receptors in the head by physical and biological factors, which is very common in clinical practice. It is estimated that one out of every 10 children or one out of every 4 adolescents suffers from headaches, seriously affecting their academic performance and their parents' work. It poses a hazard to children's health, psychological, and emotional development.

If a headache is the first occurrence, especially if it is accompanied by symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and photophobia, caution is advised. It is best to immediately consult a professional doctor for examination to determine if the headache is caused by serious illnesses such as brain tumors or encephalitis. If these diseases are suspected, hospitalization for further examination is necessary. If it is determined that the headache is benign, no further examination is required.

In fact, the majority of headaches in children are benign and can be treated with ordinary painkillers. When a headache first appears, it is advisable to give the child some water and snacks like biscuits or take them outdoors for fresh air to see if the headache improves. There are many causes of headaches in children, including stuffy rooms, worries, anxiety, fever, and illnesses. About 20% of children experience recurrent headaches without a clear cause, but many headaches can also be caused by serious illnesses.