MIGRAINE IN CHILDREN

MIGRAINE IN CHILDREN

What is migraine?

Migraine refers to a condition where the sufferer gets repeated headaches.

What are the other symptoms of migraine?

People may have nausea or vomiting associated with headaches. They also do not like noise or light during the headache episodes. Some children with migraine may not have headache and they may present with only repeated abdominal pain. 

Do children suffer from migraine?

Yes, children do suffer from migraine. 10-25% of children may suffer from migraines. Before puberty, migraine is more common in boys. After puberty, it becomes more common in girls.

What is the earliest age when migraine can affect children?

Migraine has been reported in children as early as 18 months old. About half of the children with migraine have their first attack before the age of 12 years.

What is the cause of migraine in children?

In most cases, there is a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Children with one parent with migraine has 50% chance of getting it, whereas children whose both parents have migraine have 75% chance of getting migraine. Most children with migraine have at least one close family member suffering from it.

How does migraine affect children’s quality of life?

Migraine in children can be as disabling as in adults. Children with migraine miss school twice as often as compared to those without migraine. They also suffer from anxiety, depression, and mood swings, and may not be able to focus in studies. They may also not enjoy sports and other recreational activities.

How is the diagnosis of migraine confirmed in children?

In most cases, the patient’s history and clinical examination are enough to make a diagnosis of migraine. However, in some cases, a brain scan may be needed to exclude other causes.

How is migraine treated in children?

Migraine can be effectively treated in children with medications.

For acute severe headaches, helpful medicines include paracetamol, ibuprofen and triptans (such as sumatriptan, zolmitriptan and rizatriptan).

To prevent headache episodes in future (migraine prophylaxis), propranolol, Flunarizine, topiramate or valproic acid may be used.

What measures can the children take to reduce the headache episodes?

1. Sleep adequately,

2. Eat food on time,

3. Avoid stress,

4. Certain triggers such as cakes, chocolates, Chinese food, too much TV/phone use, can be avoided/reduced. 

DR SUDHIR KUMAR MD DM

Senior Consultant Neurologist

Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad

04023607777

drsudhirkumar@yahoo.com

https://www.facebook.com/bestneurologist