Headache
Headaches in children can be more than just a temporary discomfort—they can be a sign of various underlying conditions and can significantly affect a child’s daily life. Pediatric headaches range from occasional mild headaches to more frequent and severe forms, like migraines. At Pediatric Neurology of NYC, we specialize in diagnosing and treating headaches in children, offering compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to each young patient’s needs.
Migraine
Migraines in children are not just simple headaches. These are complex neurological events that can significantly impact a child’s life. Characterized by intense, pulsating head pain, often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light, and sometimes visual disturbances like seeing aura, migraines can be a distressing experience for young ones.
At Pediatric Neurology of NYC, under the compassionate leadership of Dr. Jamie Lee Palaganas, we specialize in diagnosing and treating pediatric migraines. Our practice is dedicated to not only alleviating the pain but also understanding and addressing the triggers and underlying causes of migraines in children.
What exactly is a migraine?
A migraine is a neurological condition that is more than just a typical headache. It usually comes with extreme throbbing in one area of the head or even a pulsing sensation. It is commonly paired with nausea, vomiting, and severe sensitivity to light and sounds.
What are common types of headaches in children?
Headaches in children can manifest in various forms, including tension-type headaches, characterized by a dull, aching pain, and migraines, which are more severe and often accompanied by other symptoms like nausea or sensitivity to light. Cluster headaches, although less common in children, can also occur.
What causes headaches in children?
The causes of headaches in children are diverse and can range from environmental factors like stress or lack of sleep to physical triggers such as dehydration or poor posture. In some cases, headaches can be symptomatic of another medical condition or illness.
How do we diagnose headaches in children?
At Pediatric Neurology of NYC, diagnosing headaches involves a thorough assessment, including a detailed medical history and a physical and neurological examination. We may also recommend additional tests like an MRI or blood tests to rule out other conditions.
What are the symptoms of migraines in children?
When it comes to understanding migraines in children, recognizing the symptoms is a crucial first step. At Pediatric Neurology of NYC, we know that children may not always be able to express what they’re feeling, making it important for parents and caregivers to be aware of the signs. Here’s a rundown of common symptoms that might indicate your child is experiencing a migraine:
- Headache
- Sensitivity to Light and Sound
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Visual Disturbances (Aura)
- Dizziness or Vertigo
- Mood Changes
- Fatigue
- Abdominal Pain
If you recognize any of these symptoms in your child, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for an evaluation and personalized care plan.
How do we diagnose migraines?
At Pediatric Neurology of NYC, we understand that pinpointing the cause of your child’s migraines is key to finding relief. Our approach is thorough and centered around your child’s unique experiences.
Comprehensive Medical History Review:
- Your family's health story matters. We start by exploring your child's health history and any family patterns of migraines or neurological conditions.
- Understanding the complete picture, from the first headache to the most recent, helps us identify patterns and triggers.
Symptom Analysis:
- Each headache tells a story. We focus on how your child describes their headache — its severity, location, and characteristics like throbbing or pulsating.
- We also take note of accompanying symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, or visual changes, which are often crucial clues.
Comprehensive Examinations:
- A full physical check-up assesses your child's overall health, while a neurological exam zooms in on their nervous system for any signs that might explain the headaches.
- These exams are gentle yet thorough, ensuring your child feels comfortable and heard.
Targeted Diagnostic Tests (When Necessary):
Sometimes, we need a closer look. This might mean
- MRI or CT scans for a detailed image of the brain, ruling out other causes.
- An EEG if we suspect a seizure disorder.
- Blood tests to uncover any underlying conditions that could be contributing factors.
Uncovering Triggers Together:
- Your insights are invaluable. We'll talk about potential migraine triggers in your child's life, like specific foods, stress, or sleep patterns.
- Your observations at home can be pivotal in identifying what might be setting off these migraine episodes.
What treatment options are available?
Treatment for headaches in children is highly personalized and may include:
Lifestyle modifications like regular sleep patterns, hydration, and stress management.
Medications to relieve pain or prevent frequent headaches.
Behavioral therapy and relaxation techniques to help manage headache triggers.
Guidance and support for dietary changes if certain foods are identified as triggers.
What treatment options are available?
With the right approach and management, many children can see a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of their headaches. Our goal is to not only treat the headaches but also to empower children and their families with the knowledge and tools to manage and prevent them. Treatment for migraines in children can vary depending on the frequency and severity of the headaches. It often includes a combination of medication to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks, lifestyle adjustments to avoid migraine triggers, and sometimes counseling or biofeedback to help manage the pain.
If your child is experiencing frequent or severe headaches, Pediatric Neurology of NYC is here to help. Dr. Jamie Lee Palaganas and our dedicated team are committed to providing expert, child-centered care and a comprehensive approach to migraine management tailored to each child’s needs. Contact us to schedule an appointment, and let’s work together to improve your child’s quality of life and well-being.