Migraines are a potentially disabling condition common in not only adults, but children and adolescents too.
It is one of the most common neurological symptoms reported in childhood which also leads to a high level of school absenteeism.
Kids who suffer from constant migraines are affected almost daily.
This condition can also lead to other negative symptoms like increased anxiety and depression.
The Shocking Truth
Migraines are three times more likely to occur in adolescent girls than boys.
Most headaches in children are due to illness such as sinusitis, infection, cold, or fever.
That being said, the direct cause of a migraine is still largely unknown, but periodic disorders of childhood conditions are often a precursor to migraines.
Adolescent Migraines
20% of adults who suffer from headaches say their headaches started before the age of 10 while 50% say their headaches started before the age of 20.
This includes tension headaches, migraines, and sinus headaches.
Remember that asthma, allergies, motion sickness and seizure disorders are all more common in migraine patients too.
In some cases, a child’s headaches may improve as they get older.
If the headaches begin to worsen over time, there could be an underlying cause.
A more serious problem may be present, such as:
- Meningitis
- A tumor
- Blood clots
- Head trauma
- Encephalitis
If you suspect this is the case, take your child to see a doctor immediately.
For more information on migraines and adolescents, please read Adolescent Migraines Explained.
Lifestyle Changes
In order to deal effectively with adolescent migraines, there are three important factors which must be taken into account:
- Explanation and reassurance
- Identification of triggers
- Behavioural management strategy
Dietary sensitivities only affect about 20% of migraine sufferers.
The following are common migraine triggers:
- Lack of sleep
- Video games
- Skipped meals
- Stress
- Dehydration / warm weather
- Loud noises
- Too much physical activity
- In girls, changes during the menstrual cycle
One of the most common and underrated causes is striving for academic excellence.
Yes, that’s right!!
Children in this day and age are subjected to the same kind of stress adults are, and inevitably suffer the same fate.
Natural Remedies
Natural remedies for migraines have been used for a range of ailments.
These include:
- Ginger root
- Fish oil
- Vitamin C
- Peppermint oil
- Flax seed
- Gingko Biloba
- Vitamin B
Feverfew, also known as Tanacetum Parthenium, is another well-known remedy used combat headaches and migraines.
It is one of the oldest herbal remedies around which can be steeped in tea or even eaten raw.
Natural treatment eliminates any dangerous side effects which usually comes with medication.
Try a combination of natural remedies to see what works best.
Moving Forward
When trying to manage adolescent migraines, the whole family should get involved.
Ensure your child gets enough sleep, and spends their free time outdoors whenever possible.
Your knowledge of migraines should be vast and be supportive during bouts of migraine.
