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Headaches and Migraines

Summary

Migraines are a common cause of headaches in children, affecting about 10% of kids. These headaches can be severe and may impact daily activities, including school and play. Migraines can sometimes improve as a child grows, with up to half of affected children experiencing fewer or no migraines over time.

Not all migraine treatments work for every child, and psychological factors such as stress and anxiety may influence symptoms. A doctor will consider other possible causes of headaches before diagnosing a migraine.

Diagnosis and When to Seek Help

A child may have a migraine if they experience:

  • Moderate to severe headaches that last between 2 and 48 hours.
  • Pain that is throbbing, worsens with movement, or is located on one or both sides of the head.
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia) or sound (phonophobia).
  • Nausea or vomiting.

Seek medical attention if your child experiences:

  • Sudden, severe headaches that are different from their usual migraines.
  • Headaches with fever, neck stiffness, confusion, or vision changes.
  • Headaches that wake them from sleep or worsen over time.

Management

Migraine treatment is personalized and may include:

Acute Treatment (for immediate relief):

  • Rest in a quiet, dark room to reduce symptoms.
  • Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, taken early in the headache.
  • Hydration—ensuring the child drinks enough fluids.

Preventive Strategies:

  • Avoiding triggers such as stress, poor sleep, dehydration, or certain foods.
  • Establishing a regular sleep schedule and maintaining a balanced diet.
  • Stress management techniques like relaxation exercises or counseling.
  • Medications may be considered if migraines are frequent or severe.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

  • Keep a headache diary to track patterns, triggers, and treatment effectiveness.
  • Follow up with a doctor to adjust treatment if needed.
  • Encourage healthy habits to help reduce the frequency of migraines.

With the right approach, migraines can be managed, allowing children to stay active and engaged in daily life.

History and Exam

Key diagnostic factor

  • presence of risk factors
  • age >2 years
  • gradual onset of headache
  • normal physical examination

Other diagnostic factors

  • aura
  • nausea and/or vomiting
  • visual disturbance
  • phonophobia

Risk factors

  • positive family history of migraine
  • chocolate, cheese, and citrus fruits
  • stress
  • hormonal changes

Diagnostic Investigations

1st investigations to order

  • no initial test

Investigations to consider

  • brain CT/MRI

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    Other Related Conditions

    epilepsy and seizures

    tic disorders

    developmental delay, neurodevelopmental disorders

    weakness

    cerebral palsy

    neurogenetic disorders

    neurometabolic disorder

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      Social and emotional functioning refers to a child’s ability to understand, express, and manage their emotions, as well as to interact effectively with others. These skills are fundamental for building positive relationships, developing empathy, and coping with the everyday challenges of growing up.

      Children who experience difficulties in social and emotional functioning may struggle with recognizing their own feelings or those of others, regulating emotional responses, or responding appropriately in social situations. This can lead to challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulty making friends, or misunderstandings with peers and adults.

      In the school environment, social and emotional difficulties can impact a child’s engagement, cooperation, and overall learning experience. Emotional distress may manifest as withdrawal, irritability, or disruptive behaviour, which can further affect academic progress and peer relationships.

      Assessment of social and emotional functioning as part of a neuropsychological evaluation typically includes behavioural observations, standardized rating scales, and information gathered from parents, teachers, and sometimes the child. This comprehensive approach helps identify strengths and areas for support in emotional regulation, social skills, and adaptive behaviours.

      Understanding a child’s social-emotional profile allows for the development of tailored strategies to enhance emotional wellbeing, build resilience, and improve social communication. Early intervention and supportive environments can empower children to navigate their emotions more effectively, fostering confidence and meaningful connections. 

      At Offspring Health, we aim to provide transparent information about the costs involved in neurodevelopmental and educational assessments.

      Neuropsychological assessments typically involve multiple sessions that usually take between 8 and 16 hours in total, depending on the complexity and individual needs. Our hourly rate is $260, so the total cost typically ranges between $2,300 and $4,230.

      Fees generally cover:

      • Initial consultation and history gathering
      • Testing sessions where your child will complete various fun and interactive tasks
      • Liaison with schools or health professionals as needed
      • Comprehensive case analysis and report preparation
      • Feedback sessions with families and, where applicable, educators or other professionals

      Please note that standard neuropsychological assessments are generally not covered by Medicare. However, some assessments and therapy services may be funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for eligible participants. We recommend discussing funding options with your NDIS planner or support coordinator prior to booking. Private health insurance may offer partial rebates depending on your level of coverage.

      What’s the next step?

      Please phone reception for a discussion about your needs or email psychology@offspringhealth.com