Migraine Symptoms and Treatment in Children

Don’t say if children have migraines, migraine is a troublesome situation that can affect even your little baby. We have explained the symptoms of migraine, which can be seen due to both physical and psychological problems, and how it is treated.

Do children get migraines?

Migraine is a type of headache that occurs with attacks from time to time, usually on one side of the head, has a throbbing feature and can cause other related disorders. Yes, children also have migraines, although they are much less common than in adults. But it may show different symptoms than adults.

What are the symptoms of migraine in children?

• It is typically throbbing and unilateral. However, pain that completely covers the head can also be seen.
• Eye pain may occur. This can cause redness, tearing, and swelling in the eyes.
• Nausea and vomiting may also occur along with the pain .
• Sleep disturbances are common.
• The child may become withdrawn.
• He may develop the habit of grinding his teeth at night .
• Neck stiffness can be seen.
• May want to sleep all the time, may avoid socializing.

At what age does migraine start in children?

Migraine in children can begin to appear from the age of 3-4 years. However, it is mostly seen in the process that includes the adolescence period starting from the age of 7. Most cases are equal in boys and girls before puberty. After puberty, it starts to be seen more in girls.

What are the types of migraine in children?

Migraine with aura: In this type of migraine;

• Numbness,
• Tingle,
• blurred vision,
• The feeling of flashing light in the eyes,
• seeing blackouts,
• Speech impairment is rare. These symptoms begin to appear 30-60 minutes before the onset of a migraine attack.

Migraine without aura: It is a type of migraine seen in 85% of children. Depression, restlessness, and hyperactivity may be seen before the attack begins. When the pain begins, dark circles may begin to appear under the eyes. The pain can last up to 3 days, and when it subsides, there may be a desire to sleep for a long time.

How to treat migraine in children?

• First of all, it is necessary to eliminate the triggering factors. Avoiding situations and foods that cause migraine attacks such as chocolate, caffeine, stress, insomnia, irregular diet, long-term hunger, excessive light and sound are important in treatment.
• Afterwards, imaging tests such as MRI may be requested to determine if there is any other condition that affects the headache.
• Medication is not used for children in the first place. Methods such as lifestyle changes, exercise, regular nutrition, getting plenty of oxygen in the open air, and staying away from devices such as computers and mobile phones work.
• If the attacks do not decrease with such measures, drug treatment can be applied.
• It may also be helpful to consult a psychologist.