Headaches in children are more common than you think — but not always easy to understand. School going kids can verbalise for headache, against younger kids may only get irritable or dull during it.
🔍 Common Causes of Headaches in Kids
Causes leading to headache are different in different ages
- In Toddlers and preschoolers:
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water, especially in summers
- Screen time overload: Too much time on phones, tablets, or gaming
- Poor sleep or skipped meals
- Unwell body / fever (Most common cause)
- Prolonged travel
- In School going children (Primary school) :
- Stress: Not mental stress but too much physical stress can cause headache
- Dehydration
- Lack of sleep
- Vision problems
- Sinus issues
- Excess screen exposure
- In rare cases, neurological conditions
- Migraine: Can start as early as 5 years old
- In school going children (High or middle school) :
- Mental and emotional stress
- Excess screen exposure
- Lack of physical activity
- Improper nutrition and sleep
- Migraine
⚠️ When Should You Worry?
See a doctor if the headache is associated with following RED FLAG symptoms
- Frequent or daily disabling headaches
- Wakes your child from sleep
- Accompanied by vomiting or blurred vision
- Causes fainting or imbalance
- Significant severity to disable for the day
- Associated with seizures or confusion
🧠 Can Headaches Be a Sign of Neurological Issues?
In rare cases, yes — headaches could be due to infections, brain pressure, or tumors. But most childhood headaches are benign and manageable with the right treatment.
A pediatric neurologist helps identify the root cause through history, physical exam, and occasionally imaging (MRI or CT, if needed).
Conclusion
Don’t ignore recurring headaches — your child may not know how to express their discomfort fully. Early consultation gives peace of mind and ensures proper care.
