Paediatric Headache Disorders

Headaches are not just an adult issue; children in Singapore can also experience various types of headache disorders. Paediatric headaches can significantly affect your child’s quality of life, from disrupting their schooling to impacting their social interactions.

While headaches in children are often overlooked, recognising the signs early and seeking appropriate medical advice is essential. In this article, we’ll explore what paediatric headache disorders are, their causes, symptoms, and available treatment options for your child in Singapore.

What Are Paediatric Headache Disorders?

Paediatric headache disorders refer to recurring headaches experienced by children and adolescents. These headaches can range in severity and duration, affecting different aspects of a child’s life. The most common types of headache disorders in children include:

• Tension Headaches [link to Tension Headaches]: These are the most frequent type in children, characterised by mild to moderate constant pressure or tightness around the head.
• Migraines: Paediatric migraines often involve throbbing pain on one side of the head, sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
• Cluster Headaches: Although rare in children, cluster headaches cause intense, recurring pain around one eye or one side of the head.

Paediatric headaches may present differently compared to adult headaches, making it crucial for parents and caregivers to be aware of the unique signs and symptoms.

What Causes Paediatric Headache Disorders?

Several factors can contribute to paediatric headache disorders. One common cause is stress, which could stem from school pressures, family issues, or social interactions. Lack of sleep, dehydration, and skipping meals can also trigger headaches in children. Environmental factors such as Singapore’s hot and humid climate may lead to dehydration, increasing the risk of headaches.

For paediatric migraines, there is often a genetic link, meaning if a parent or close relative suffers from migraines, the child may be more likely to experience them as well. In some cases, headaches may also be triggered by certain foods, strong smells, or bright lights.

Other medical conditions, such as sinus infections, head injuries, or vision problems, may contribute to paediatric headaches. For some children, emotional stress or anxiety plays a significant role in the onset of headache disorders.

What Are the Symptoms of Paediatric Headache Disorders?

The symptoms of paediatric headache disorders vary depending on the type of headache. Some children may describe their pain as a dull, throbbing, or squeezing sensation, while others may have difficulty expressing their discomfort, especially younger children. Common symptoms to look out for include:

• Tension Headaches: A steady ache or tightness around the head, often described as wearing a tight band.
• Migraines: Throbbing pain on one side of the head, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sensitivity to light, sound, and smell. Younger children may also experience abdominal pain during a migraine episode.
• Cluster Headaches: Intense, sharp pain around one eye or side of the head, accompanied by watery eyes, nasal congestion, or facial sweating.

Parents and caregivers should also observe changes in their child's behaviour, such as increased irritability, difficulty concentrating, or reluctance to participate in normal activities, which could indicate a headache.

Are Paediatric Headache Disorders Painful?

Yes, paediatric headache disorders can be painful, and in some cases, the pain can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities. Migraines, in particular, can cause throbbing pain that may last for several hours or even days, leaving children feeling fatigued or unwell. While tension headaches are generally less severe, they can still cause discomfort and affect a child’s mood or ability to focus. Cluster headaches, though rare in children, cause extreme pain and may result in episodes of intense distress.

Who Is at Risk of Getting Paediatric Headache Disorders in Singapore?

Children of all ages can experience headache disorders, but certain groups may be at higher risk. Factors that increase the likelihood of paediatric headaches include:

• Genetics: Children with a family history of migraines or chronic headaches are more likely to experience them.
• Environmental Triggers: The hot, humid weather in Singapore can contribute to dehydration, which is a known headache trigger. High pollution levels or exposure to bright lights and loud noises can also increase the risk of headaches.
• Stress: Academic pressure, extracurricular activities, and social challenges can lead to increased stress levels in children, which may trigger tension headaches or migraines.
• Sleep Issues: Poor sleep habits or irregular sleep patterns may also increase the risk of headaches in children.

How Are Paediatric Headache Disorders Diagnosed?

Diagnosing paediatric headache disorders usually involves a detailed medical history and physical examination by a paediatric neurologist. Parents or caregivers will be asked about the child’s headache frequency, duration, location of pain, and any accompanying symptoms like nausea or light sensitivity. A doctor may also inquire about potential triggers, such as diet, stress levels, or sleep patterns.

In some cases, further diagnostic tests such as MRI [link to MRI] or CT scans [link to CT] may be recommended to rule out other underlying conditions, especially if the headaches are severe or sudden. Keeping a headache diary to track when headaches occur and what the child was doing or eating beforehand can also be helpful in diagnosis and treatment.

What Are the Treatment Options for Paediatric Headache Disorders in Singapore?

Treating paediatric headache disorders in Singapore often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and behavioural therapy. Common treatment options include:

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used for mild headaches. For more severe cases like migraines, prescription medications such as triptans may be considered, depending on the child’s age and suitability.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging healthy habits such as regular sleep schedules, proper hydration, balanced meals, and managing stress can significantly reduce the frequency of headaches. In Singapore, staying hydrated is particularly important given the humid climate.
• Behavioural Therapy: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) [link to CBT] and relaxation techniques can help children manage stress, which may reduce headache occurrences.
• Physical Therapy: For tension headaches caused by muscle strain or poor posture, physical therapy or massage may provide relief.
• Preventive Medications: For chronic headache conditions, a paediatric neurologist may prescribe preventive medications to reduce the frequency of headaches.

Paediatric headache disorders can be distressing for both children and their families, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, they can be effectively managed. Recognising the early signs and seeking personalised medical help is crucial in ensuring that your child receives the best care possible. Schedule a consultation with Dr Charles Siow today to get the help your child needs and ensure they lead a happy, headache-free life.