What are the symptoms and signs of a headache?

Babies and toddlers may not be able to tell you that they have a headache. Some other symptoms and signs that may accompany a headache are:

• Irritability
• Sleepiness
• Cold symptoms
• Fever
• Sensitivity to light
• Vomiting

What are the causes of a headache?

There are many causes of headaches in babies and children. Some causes are serious, but these tend to be rare. 

• Fatigue, stress
• Dehydration
• Migraine
• As part of “the common cold” or other viral infections
• Sinus infection
• Head injury
• Meningitis
• Ear infection
• Tooth infection or teeth grinding
• Tumor (rarely)

When can I treat a headache at home?

Mild headaches that are not recurrent and that are short-lived may be treated at home. If your child, however, is ill with other symptoms or has a persistent/chronic headache, you should seek professional medical attention.

When should I seek medical attention?

If your child displays any of the following red flags (warning signs) 

• Fever
• Excessive irritability or sleepiness
• Vomiting
• Stiff neck
• A headache following a head injury
• A headache that lasts more than several hours or that is progressively worsening
• A history of recurrent headaches
• A family history of migraine headaches
• A headache that wakes your child at night
• A change in vision, difficulty moving arms or legs, loss of balance or confusion
• If you are concerned for any other reason

First aid measures 

• Ensure that your child is well hydrated
• Place cool compresses on the forehead and neck
• A quiet, darkened room may help
• Medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help symptoms. Talk to a healthcare professional about the correct dose for your child. Never give a child Aspirin
• For migraine headaches, discuss avoiding certain triggers such as certain foods with your doctor
• Stress reduction, emotional support and regular exercise may be helpful for certain types of headaches