What are Pediatric Migraines?

Pediatric migraine is a type of headache that affects children and adolescents, characterized by moderate to severe pain, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. Migraines can significantly impact a child's quality of life, affecting their ability to attend school and participate in daily activities.

Symptoms of Pediatric Migraines May Include:

• Throbbing or pulsing head pain, often on one side
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Fatigue or irritability

Facts About Pediatric Migraines

• Migraines affect about 10% of children and adolescents worldwide.
• Pediatric migraines can sometimes be more challenging to diagnose because the symptoms may differ from those in adults.

Who is at Risk for Pediatric Migraines?

Risk factors for pediatric migraine may include:

• Genetics: A family history of migraines is a strong risk factor.
• Sex: Before puberty, boys are more likely to have migraines, but after puberty, girls are more likely to be affected.
• Age: Pediatric migraines often start between the ages of 7 and 14.
• Environment: Triggers such as stress, poor sleep, and certain foods can provoke migraines in children.
• Other Risk Factors: Hormonal changes, dehydration, and skipped meals are common migraine triggers.

How Many Children Have Pediatric Migraines?

Approximately 10% of school-aged children and up to 28% of adolescents experience migraines.

Diagnosis & Management

Pediatric migraines are diagnosed through a clinical evaluation, including a detailed medical history and physical examination. In some cases, imaging studies or blood tests may be needed to rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options for Pediatric Migraines

Medical and Pharmaceutical Treatments

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications like triptans, and preventive medications may be used.
• Behavioral Therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and biofeedback can be effective in managing migraine symptoms.

Lifestyle Interventions

• Sleep Hygiene: Ensuring regular sleep patterns can reduce the frequency of migraines.
• Dietary Changes: Identifying and avoiding dietary triggers, such as certain foods or drinks, is crucial.
• Stress Management: Techniques like relaxation exercises and mindfulness can help reduce migraine triggers.

Has Your Child Been Diagnosed with Pediatric Migraines?

At Clinical Investigation Specialists, Inc. (CIS Research), our mission is to advance medical care for children through innovative clinical research. Your child may be an eligible candidate for a clinical trial researching treatment options. For more information on currently enrolling clinical trials, click here.

Resources

• Understanding Pediatric Migraine | American Migraine Foundation
• Headaches in children - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic

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