Warning

In the hours or days before a headache, a child may have these warning signs:

• A change in mood, behavior, or activity
• Feeling very tired
• Food cravings or lack of hunger
• Nausea or diarrhea
• Sensitivity to light

Aura

Auras are feelings that may happen before some types of migraine.

The most common aura is visual. It lasts about 15 to 30 minutes and may cause:

• Flashing lights, spots, or zig zag lines
• Partial loss of vision
• Problems speaking
• A weakness in an arm or leg
• Numbness or tingling in the face and hands

The Migraine Headache

When an aura happens, migraine pain starts within an hour after the aura ends. Headaches often last from 2 to 72 hours and may cause:

• A headache on one or both sides that may be:
  • Moderate or severe
  • Throbbing or pulsating
  • Worse with movement

• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Lightheadedness

Medicine

Medicine is the first treatment option for migraines. The type of medicine used depends on how severe the headaches are.

Options may be:

• Acetaminophen
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen
• Triptans to constrict blood vessels and block inflammation
• Dopamine receptor blockers
• Antiseizure medications
• Magnesium sulfate
• Dihydroergotamine

Therapy

Therapy may be used with or without medicine to ease stress and improve how a child copes with pain. It may result in fewer headaches that do not last as long. Options are:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Biofeedback
• Relaxation methods

Preventing Migraines Before They Happen

Tracking and avoiding migraine triggers may help prevent headaches in some children. Some triggers may be certain foods, stress, and changes in temperature.

Children with severe or frequent migraines may need medicine to try to prevent or decrease them, such as:

• Anti-seizure medicine
• Antidepressants