Headaches in children can stem from a range of different causes and there are several natural methods of relieving pain.
If your child is complaining of a headache, you should always discuss the pain and its possible causes with them and your healthcare professional.
Tension headaches
Usually felt as a tight band around the head, tension headaches may arise as the result of emotions (anxiety, tiredness, over-excitement, insecurity). They usually worsen as the day goes on.
Massage, especially in the neck and shoulder area, can offer instant relief. Magnesium-rich foods and supplements may also help relieve muscular tension.
Allergic headaches
Children with food sensitivity may react to the natural chemicals in foods such as milk, cheese, citrus, wheat, eggs, tomato, chocolate and fish. Respiratory and digestive allergies can also cause headaches.
Treatment usually involves a temporary elimination diet, following extensive consultation with a specialist (see Not his cup of tea).
Sinus headaches
Pain is felt around the eye socket and cheeks.
Try an inhalation of lavender and eucalyptus oil to ease the headache and relieve congestion.
Eyestrain headaches
Pain is felt around the eyes, particularly during screen activities or while attempting detailed work.
Encourage plenty of breaks and as much natural light as possible, and include vitamin A, betacarotene and zinc-rich foods in the diet.
If these headaches continue, glasses may be needed.
Muscular and postural headaches
Symptoms can include muscle tension at the base of the skull, or pain on the forehead and around eyes.
These headaches are often caused by ergonomic factors, such as chairs being too low or lounges too big and soft. If there has been any injury, consider treatment by an osteopath or chiropractor.
Low blood sugar headaches
These headaches occur mainly around the temples, and may disappear when food is eaten.
If your child gets these headaches, try six to eight small meals a day rather than three big ones, including a protein source and complex carbohydrates each time to help balance blood sugar levels.
Dehydration headaches
Headaches can also arise from mild dehydration.
If your child is active and the temperature is hot, monitor their fluid intake: 1.5 litres of water per day is recommended.
Remember, include plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains in your child’s diet and encourage them to drink plenty of water. Find out what the cause is of any severe, recurrent or persistent headache by contacting your healthcare professional.
References available on request