Headache

Here's what you should know

Headaches in kids can be the result of a variety of factors. Here's some information to help you care for your child's headache at home or to help you decide if you need to go to a provider.

Common causes of headache you can care for at home:

• Mild-moderate illnesses
• Mild dehydration
• Stress or anxiety

Home care tips

• Try to get your child to drink fluids
• Give them some ibuprofen (for children older than 6 months) or Tylenol if appropriate
• A cool compress on the forehead can also be helpful in reducing discomfort
• If the headache continues to worsen after an hour, consider visiting your child's primary care provider or a pediatric urgent care

When to contact a medical professional

• Headache after an injury, particularly a head injury. If your child is not responsive, vomiting, or seems to be acting very strangely or sleepy after a head injury, take them to an emergency room
• Headache and fever greater than or equal to 100.4°F in a child under 2 years old and more than 101° F degrees in a child over 2 years old
• Headache in addition to vomiting