Headaches in children

Abstract

Headaches are common in children; however, assessment can be a challenge in this age group. The description of an attack may not be clear, attacks may be infrequent and so a pattern of attacks may be difficult to ascertain, examination can be difficult, especially in a very young or uncooperative child, and presentation is often accompanied by significant parental anxiety. This article aims to provide a strategy for GPs to differentiate primary from secondary headaches and common primary headache types such as migraine and tension-type headache. It also outlines the primary care management of these conditions.