Most times, headaches are not considered to be anything serious. The common complaints about headaches are often linked to lack of sleep, stress, dehydration, or a mild lump on the head. However, if your child is complaining about a severe headache or one that persists, certain signs and symptoms can indicate a more serious underlying issue. When you understand these signs, you can help ensure your child’s safety and health. Here are seven warning signs that indicate your child’s headache may be a serious health concern.
Fever and Stiff Neck
When your child is complaining about a headache, observe if they have any other symptoms that can indicate something more is happening. Observe if they also have a fever or a stiff neck. These can be signs of a severe infection of the brain and spinal cord, which is called meningitis. One way to check if they have a stiff neck is by having them touch their chin to their chest. They can also move their heads up and down to demonstrate if there is any stiffness. You should take them to a doctor immediately if they show any of these signs.
Severe Pain That Doesn’t Relieve with Medication
There are times when children complain about headaches, and parents may give them over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate the headache. If the headache shows no sign of stopping after your child has taken pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, you should see a physician. When headaches are severe or persistent, they should never be ignored because it could indicate that something is seriously wrong.
Frequent vomiting
When children are vomiting, it should never be taken lightly, especially if they are vomiting repeatedly and have a headache. When headaches are accompanied by vomiting, it may be a sign that there is increased pressure on the brain. Vomiting once after a head bump or minor illness may not be severe, but if the vomiting is persistent, then you should see a physician.
Sleepiness or Difficulty with Normal Activities
Another sign that may be concerning is if your child’s headache is accompanied by unusual drowsiness. If your child is experiencing this, it may be caused by a neurological problem. A neurological problem can also lead to your child having difficulty walking, talking, or engaging in normal activities. If you observe any of these signs, you should speak with a doctor.
Headache That Wakes Your Child from Sleep
Typical headaches do not wake your child up from their sleep. There are many instances when children wake up and realise that they have a headache upon waking, but the headache does not disrupt their sleep. If the headache is severe enough to interfere with the child’s sleep, it could indicate an underlying issue. In such cases, you should consult a doctor.
Worsening headache when lying down
If children experience severe headaches when lying down and they are more intense in the morning, only gradually fading as the day goes by, then it could indicate that there is an increased pressure inside the skull. The child should be evaluated by a doctor because this type of headache is abnormal.
Frequent Headaches or Disruption of Daily Life
Headache that occurs multiple times per week or interferes with your child’s school, socialising, or everyday activities is a reason for concern. You should consult a doctor about this issue, which could indicate various ailments. A doctor will evaluate the child and determine a solution for the frequent headaches. Additionally, headaches may become more frequent when pain relievers are used too often.
