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Page: << Prev | 1 | 2 "Our study indicates that patients with migraines should be monitored for sleep and emotional disorders," said Pakalnis, a faculty member at Ohio State University College of Medicine. "These findings suggest that factors such as frequent migraines may play a role in the occurrence of these disorders."
In the study, regular caffeine consumption was also associated with reports of depression and sleep difficulties. Limiting caffeine may also improve sleep and mood issues and lessen the frequency of migraines, Pakalnis said.
To help avoid migraines, parents should also make sure children eat regular, balanced meals and are staying properly hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
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During a migraine attack, over-the-counter pain medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help, but parents should keep tabs on the dosage their older children are taking. Overuse of analgesics could indicate a more severe condition and over time, can make it more difficult to manage pain, Pakalnis said.
If a healthy diet and sleep schedule doesn't help reduce migraine frequency, parents should take their child to see their pediatrician, who may prescribe a triptan, prescription drugs used to treat migraines. While there are several brands of triptans on the market, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved only one for use in adolescents.
Children whose headaches occur in the back of the head, who get headaches only in the morning, who experience nausea or whose headaches get progressively worse or suddenly deviate from their usual pattern should also see their doctor, the researchers added.
More information
The Nemours Foundation has more on headaches.
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-- Jennifer Thomas
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