Headaches are no fun, and with the spring in full bloom, it is more likely that headaches can occur in kids. Do you have a "headache child"?
I, unfortunately, suffer from migraines, sinus headaches, tension headaches...you name it. What is even more unfortunate is the fact that one of my sons suffer from headaches as well. I have been dubbed a "headache person" by more than one doctor, and I would hate to think that any of my kids would have to go through headache pain, too.
Here are some interesting facts that I found through a TopHealth Newsletter (October 2007). Since half the battle of helping headaches is knowing what may be causing them, I try to use this list and its suggestions to help myself and my 11-year-old son deal with the pain. I want to pass these suggestions on to you.
Stress is a major headache trigger. One usually develops "tension headaches" with stress, and kids are victims as well as adults. Daily exercise can help with stress and, thus, lower your chances for developing a headache.
Too much television, computer, and reading can cause headaches. This type of headache is usually temporary and can be relieved by simply giving your eyes a break from the constant staring.
What you eat can cause a headache. The big culprits are caffeine, chocolate, anything containing MSG (usually found in Chinese foods), as well as citrus fruits. Lower the amount of soda and candy your tween is allowed to consume, and headaches may be a thing of the past.
Sitting for a long period of time can cause tension on your shoulders and give you a headache. Be sure to take regular breaks, and suggest to your tween that she take study breaks as well to stretch.
Too much sleep, as well as too little can cause headaches. Set a routine bedtime and wake up time to tackle this problem.
