Headache / Migraine

Headaches are among the most common neurological complaints in children and adolescents. Migraines, in particular, can be debilitating and significantly affect a child’s school performance, social life, and overall well-being. Proper diagnosis and a personalized management plan can greatly reduce their impact.

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Types of Headaches

• Migraine – Moderate to severe throbbing pain, often with nausea and light sensitivity
• Tension-Type Headache – Dull, pressing pain around the head
• Cluster Headache – Severe, one-sided pain occurring in clusters
• Chronic Daily Headache – Headaches occurring 15 or more days per month
• Secondary Headaches – Due to underlying conditions (infection, increased intracranial pressure)

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Signs & Symptoms of Migraine

• Moderate to severe pulsating or throbbing head pain
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia)
• Visual disturbances or aura before the headache
• Pain worsened by physical activity
• Abdominal pain or dizziness in younger children

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Common Triggers

• Stress and anxiety
• Irregular sleep patterns
• Skipping meals or dehydration
• Screen time and bright lights
• Hormonal changes (in adolescents)
• Certain foods and beverages

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Diagnosis

• Detailed headache history and diary review
• Neurological examination
• Brain MRI (if secondary cause is suspected)
• Blood tests and vision assessment when indicated

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Treatment & Management

• Acute Medications – Pain relievers and triptans for migraine attacks
• Preventive Medications – Daily medications to reduce frequency and severity
• Lifestyle Modifications – Regular sleep, hydration, and stress management
• Trigger Identification & Avoidance – Personalized trigger management plan
• Biofeedback & Relaxation Techniques – Non-pharmacological approaches
• Dietary Guidance – Identifying and avoiding food triggers

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Our Approach

We take a holistic approach to headache management, combining accurate diagnosis with individualized treatment plans. We work with children and their families to identify triggers, optimize therapy, and minimize the impact of headaches on daily life.

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When to Consult a Specialist

Seek evaluation if your child has:

• Frequent or severe headaches
• Headaches that wake them from sleep
• Sudden “thunderclap” headache
• Headaches with fever, stiff neck, or vision changes
• Headaches affecting school attendance or daily activities

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Book a Consultation

Don’t let headaches hold your child back. Schedule a consultation today for expert diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.