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Condition

Pediatric Headaches

Key Points About Headaches in Children

  • A headache is pain or discomfort in one or more areas of the head or face. Headaches can happen once in a while. Or they may happen often.
  • Primary headaches are not linked to another health condition. They are often caused by tight muscles, widened (dilated) blood vessels, changes in nerve signals or swelling (inflammation) in parts of the brain.
  • Secondary headaches are the least common type of headaches. They are caused by a problem in the brain, or another health condition or disease.
  • In addition to head pain, your child may have nausea or vomiting.
  • Your child may have an MRI or a CT scan to help diagnose what may be causing a headache.
  • Treatment may include resting, taking medicines, managing stress, getting more sleep and not having certain foods or drinks.

Appointments

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a headache in children?

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Headache and Migraine Treatment at Children's National Hospital

Our nationally recognized clinic helps children and adolescents with chronic, debilitating head pain, headaches and migraines. Discover more about the treatments we offer.

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PATIENT STORY

Brynleigh's Story

Providers Who Treat Headaches

    Departments that Treat Headaches

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    Program for Health Problems Related to Bullying

    The Program for Health Problems Related to Bullying treats children and teens who are bullied, as well as those who bully others.

    Balance and Vestibular Program

    The Balance and Vestibular Program at Children's National Hospital treats children experiencing dysfunction of the vestibular system such as dizziness, imbalance, delayed motor function development and vertigo.

    Headache Program

    The Headache Program at Children's National Hospital evaluates and treats more than 2,000 patients annually.