Migraine in children

MRI Migraine Specialist Treatment Centers

Migraines in children can be as severe as those suffered by adults, hampering their development and quality of life

A recent study conclusively found an association between paediatric migraines and behavioural problems such as depression.

The USA-based study that used a control group and was conducted in three leading children’s hospitals, found about 10% of children suffers with migraines that will severely affect the quality of their lives. The study further shows children with chronic migraines are far more likely to suffer from emotional disorders such as depression.

Parents who don’t take children’s headaches and migraine complaints seriously or lack an understanding of how to manage the condition risk long term emotional damage to their children. The child may start to internalise self-blame and it can cause serious psychological and emotional problems.

Migraines in children, even very young ones, can be as severe as those experienced in adults. A great concern is that children with migraine are often misdiagnosed with depression, without proper treatment of the underlying headaches or migraines.

The hereditary link: your child could be at risk

There are many studies that have been done showing clear hereditary links between migraines and headaches. Children of mothers with Chronic Daily Headaches (CDH) are thirteen times more prone to developing the same problem.

It is important for parents who suffer from headaches to determine the underlying cause of the pain with a multidisciplinary assessment to allow them to identify the warning signs which may assist should their children inherit Chronic Daily Headaches (CDH).

When should one worry about migraines in children?

Headaches which interfere with daily functioning, is a problem. An independent, scientifically accurate assessment tool can give accurate information. The Migraine Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MSQOL) is used by medical professionals and is available free of charge on our website. Any score below 90% is reason for concern.

Treating migraines in children without drugs

Children with migraine respond to non-medication treatment even better than adults do. The reason for this, we believe, is that the structures that generate migraine pain have not been placed under repetitive stress like those of adults who have suffered for many years.