Adult headaches can be anything from a minor nuisance all the way to a medical emergency. The same is true for when your child comes to you complaining of head pain.

Thankfully, most headaches are minor and can be remedied with some simple at home measures. In other cases, though, they can require prompt medical attention.

Our AFC Urgent Care Fountain City team wants you and your family to stay safe and healthy, so read on to learn about the warning signs for childhood headaches below.

How Can I Tell Where My Child’s Head Hurts?

Headaches can be the result of many different conditions, and if your little one is just learning to communicate, it can be hard or downright impossible to understand exactly what is hurting and where! This is where your attention to detail becomes important. Watch for any symptom progression or change in behavior that seems out of the ordinary for your child.

Trying some simple home remedies is a great place to start. Offer water, food and a quiet or dark room first, and follow up with some OTC pain medication if needed. If none of those methods work or your child becomes increasingly uncomfortable or exhibits any of the symptoms below, it may indicate an underlying issue.

Accompanying Headache Symptoms

• Sudden and severe pain
• Pain accompanied by a high fever
• Stiff neck
• Vision or personality changes
• Numbness or paralysis on the body
  

Is My Child’s Headache Dangerous?

If your child is presenting with any of the above warning signs, you need to seek medical attention right away. While rare, conditions like blood clots, strokes or tumors can still happen in children and are always considered medical emergencies.

It is better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your children! We can help with an initial evaluation and health history, and we can determine whether your child’s pain needs to be investigated further at a hospital or specialist. We are always here for you and your family.

Reducing Headache Pain at Home

• Provide water.
• Encourage plenty of rest in a quiet, dark room.
• Offer an OTC pain reliever or anti-inflammatory.
• Turn off the TV and cell phone screens.

Headaches are something to always take seriously. If your child is experiencing frequent headaches, stop by AFC Urgent Care Fountain City for a diagnosis.