Headache

What is a headache?

When your child has a headache he will say his head hurts. Headaches can be caused by:

• a cold or other illness
• a high fever
• hunger or thirst
• using video games or computers too long
• stress.

How can I take care of my child?

• Have your child lie down and rest until he is feeling better.
• If your child is hungry, offer fruit juice or some food.
• Give ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as soon as the headache starts. No aspirin.
• Put a cold washcloth on his forehead.
• Maybe something is bothering your child. Help him talk about it.
• Give your child a neck massage.
• Teach your child to take breaks during activities that take a lot of concentration.

Call your child's doctor right away if:

• The pain is very bad and lasts more than 2 hours after your child takes pain medicine.
• Your child has a hard time seeing, talking, walking, or thinking.
• Your child's neck is stiff.
• Your child acts very sick.

Call your child's doctor during office hours if:

• Your child often has headaches.
• The headache has lasted more than 24 hours even though your child took pain medicine.
• You have other questions or concerns.