Do kids get migraines?

Q: My nine-year-old son was in bed with a headache and vomiting. Our doctor thinks he might have had a migraine. Is that possible? What can we do to prevent another one from happening? — Kaitlin V., Portland, Ore.

A: Migraine headaches are not uncommon in youngsters. Around five to 10 per cent of all school-age kids get them, and half of all migraine sufferers have their first attack before age 12. Vomiting happens to around 90 per cent of children who suffer migraines.

If your primary care doctor or pediatrician can’t recommend a headache specialist, check out the Migraine Research Foundation for info on certified headache specialists in your area. Treating childhood migraine can be challenging. Many of the medications that are approved for adults aren’t OK for children under 12. If there is another migraine sufferer in the family, do not give your child someone else’s medication.

There are several levels of treatments that kids can receive: they include medications, cognitive behavioural therapy, even ganglion blocks or Botox. But sometimes the best treatment is bedrest in a dark, quiet room; over-the-counter pain relievers seem to work, too.

To identify triggers and see patterns, it’s smart to keep a diary that tracks your child’s food, sleep and activity, and when and how long each headache lasts. That way you can identify possible triggers — a specific stress (before a test at school), food, exercise or too much or too little sleep.

Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen at youdocsdaily@sharecare.com.