Migraine in Children, Teenagers and Young People
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Trigger factors commonly identified in children can include:
- Certain foods, such as cheese, citrus fruits, chocolate, fizzy drinks or preserved meats.
See food triggers - Missed meals. In some cases a light snack before any extra activity could be all that is needed to prevent a migraine developing as it is important to maintain a constant blood sugar level.
- Lack of sleep and/or oversleeping. It is important to maintain regular bedtime and getting up times.
- Anxiety or stress factors which may include schoolwork, school performances and difficulties in relationships with parents, siblings and/or friends.
- Excessive physical exercise.
- Long hours playing video games or watching TV.
- Flickering lights such as fluorescent tube lighting, TV flicker or flashing images.
- Certain foods, such as cheese, citrus fruits, chocolate, fizzy drinks or preserved meats.
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In many instances a combination of these factors may start a migraine. The use of a diary documenting all activities, food and drink taken in the 24 hour period prior to the onset of a migraine may help in the identification of trigger factors. Maintaining a diary for up to three months can help to establish patterns.
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See how your child can benefit from our free Migraine Diary.
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Please contact the MAI for a children’s migraine diary by phone:
01 906 1012.