Migraines in Kids: What Parents Need to Know

Migraines in Kids: What Parents Need to Know

Migraines aren’t just a grown-up problem—they’re surprisingly common in children too, affecting up to 10% of kids and teens. As a parent, watching your child suffer through a migraine can be heartbreaking. The good news? With the right tools and information, you can help your child manage their migraines and improve their quality of life.

What Are Migraines?

Migraines are a type of neurological condition—not just a bad headache. In children, they often present differently than in adults. While adults commonly experience one-sided, throbbing pain, kids may have pain on both sides of the head, across the forehead, or even in the abdomen.

 

Common Migraine Symptoms in Children

Children’s migraines may include:

• Headache (one or both sides, or across the forehead)

• Nausea or vomiting

• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells

• Dizziness or balance problems

• Abdominal pain (often called abdominal migraines)

• Visual aura (flashing lights, blurry vision)

Pediatric migraines tend to be shorter—sometimes lasting just 1–2 hours—but can still be extremely disruptive.

  

What Triggers Migraines in Kids?

Identifying and avoiding migraine triggers can be a game-changer. Common pediatric migraine triggers include:

• Dehydration

• Skipping meals

• Irregular sleep patterns

• Emotional stress or anxiety

• Processed or aged foods (like cured meats or cheese)

• Chocolate or foods with artificial additives

• Changes in weather or barometric pressure

• Hormonal shifts (especially in teens)

• Excessive screen time

Keeping a migraine diary can help pinpoint which triggers are most relevant for your child.

Managing Migraines in Children

While there’s no cure for migraines, there are several ways to reduce their frequency and severity. Here are evidence-informed strategies:

1. Lifestyle Modifications

Building consistent routines can reduce the likelihood of migraines:

• Encourage regular sleep and wake times

• Keep your child hydrated throughout the day

• Serve nutritious meals at regular intervals

• Promote stress-reducing activities like mindfulness, yoga, or play

• Limit screen time, especially before bedtime

2. Identifying and Avoiding Triggers

• Use a migraine diary to track symptoms and triggers

• Eliminate or reduce exposure to known dietary or environmental triggers

• Protect your child’s eyes with sunglasses if light sensitivity is an issue

3. Medications

• Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help if used early—but avoid overuse to prevent rebound headaches

• Prescription options, such as triptans, may be recommended for older children

• Preventive medications may be considered for frequent or debilitating migraines

4. Supplements and Alternative Therapies

Some families explore complementary approaches to migraine prevention. There are several supplements with potential benefits, though the scientific evidence varies. These include:

• Magnesium

• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

• Vitamin D

• Feverfew and Butterbur (with caution and under supervision)

 Want to learn more about the science behind supplements for migraine prevention in children?

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly migraine support supplement, check out MigraKids Comfort by MamaDoc Rx—formulated with science-backed ingredients and developed by pediatricians.

Other alternative therapies that may help include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Biofeedback

• Acupuncture (in older children and teens)

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a healthcare provider if:

• Migraines are frequent (more than once a week)

• Your child has severe vomiting or signs of dehydration

• There are neurological symptoms like weakness, confusion, or speech difficulty

• The migraine pattern suddenly changes in frequency or intensity

Final Thoughts

Pediatric migraines can be tough—for both kids and parents. But with a combination of lifestyle changes, evidence-based treatments, and professional guidance, they can be managed effectively.

Keeping a symptom diary, maintaining healthy habits, and staying in close communication with your child’s healthcare provider are key steps in managing migraines and improving your child’s quality of life.

At MamaDoc Rx, we’re dedicated to offering evidence-based, pediatrician-developed solutions to help your child thrive. For more resources and expert-backed products, visit mamadocrx.com.

Trusted Resources on Migraines in Children

1. American Migraine Foundation – Children and Migraine
   A comprehensive resource on pediatric migraines, including diagnosis, treatment options, and tips for parents.
   🔗 https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/living-with-migraines/children-and-migraine/

2. National Headache Foundation – Headaches in Children and Adolescents
   Offers information about common headache types in kids, triggers, treatments, and prevention strategies.
   🔗 https://headaches.org/2022/07/19/headaches-in-children-and-adolescents/

3. American Academy of Neurology – Migraine in Children
   Offers up-to-date guidelines and research on pediatric migraine diagnosis and management.
   🔗 https://www.aan.com (Search: migraine in children)

4. HealthyChildren.org (AAP) – Migraine Headaches in Children and Teens
   Parent-friendly article from the American Academy of Pediatrics on recognizing and managing migraines.
   🔗 https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/head-neck-nervous-system/Pages/Migraine-Headaches.aspx

5. Mayo Clinic – Migraines in Children
   Offers a detailed overview of symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment approaches for kids.
   🔗 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/in-depth/migraines-in-children/art-20046064