Headache is a common complaint among children and adolescents. The prevalence of migraine in those with headache varies by age and gender throughout childhood. Migraine begins earlier in boys than in girls, and until the age of seven, migraine occurs slightly more often among boys. By the onset of menstruation, the prevalence of migraine in boys and girls is roughly equal. However, after menstruation, migraine begins to predominate among females, and this gender separation increases even further in adolescence.
Headaches, especially migraines, have a significant impact on the lives of young people. Approximately 65-80% of children with migraine headaches will experience disruption of their normal daily activities at home, in school, and other social settings. The burden of migraine may also result in the development or worsening of anxiety or depression. Because of quality of life issues, early recognition and management of headaches in children is crucial… comments, Doclarryrobbins@aol.com
