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Headaches

Headaches are a common condition that can affect children and adolescents. Proper lifestyle habits, early treatment, and tracking symptoms can help prevent and manage headaches effectively. 

What you need to know

  • Proper lifestyle habits can help prevent headaches before they start
  • Medications work best when given at the first signs of a headache
  • Avoid overuse of pain medications (no more than 15 days per month) 

  • Triggers may include poor sleep, dehydration, stress, or missed meals
  • Blood sugar drops can contribute to headaches
  • Stress and lack of physical activity may worsen symptoms 

Medications work best if given at the first signs of a headache. Pain medications should not be given on more than 15 days per month to avoid medication overuse headaches. 

Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, etc.): 
Dose: 10 mg/kg/dose (max 800 mg/dose) — may repeat in 6 hours 
Total per day: 40 mg/kg/day (max 3200 mg/day) 
Side effects: Upset stomach — take with food 

Acetaminophen (Tylenol®): 
Dose: 15 mg/kg/dose (max 1000 mg/dose) — may repeat in 4 hours 
Total per day: 75 mg/kg/day (max 4000 mg/day) 
Side effects: Upset stomach — take with food 

Prevention 

Get better sleep: 

  • Maintain a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends
  • Keep the bedroom screen-free for at least one hour before bedtime
  • Aim for 8–11 hours of sleep each night 

Keep a balanced diet: 

  • Eat a high-protein breakfast within one hour of waking
  • Eat 3 meals and 1–3 snacks daily
  • Include protein, carbohydrates, and fruits/vegetables at each meal
  • Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks 

Stay active: 

  • At least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity daily 

Aftercare / What to do at home 

  •  Keep a headache diary to track triggers and treatments. Bring this to appointments.

Contact your care team if: 

  • You need medication 3 or more times per week
  • The treatment plan is not working 

Go to the Emergency Department if: 

  • Severe or worsening headache
  • New concerning symptoms, which may include but is not exhaustive to associated neck stiffness, visual/hearing changes, persistent vomiting, loss of sensation, inability to move certain parts of the body, altered level of consciousness 

Websites: 

Print as a PDF fact sheet

Disclaimer 

These resources are for educational purposes only. If you have questions, speak with your health care provider. Last updated: June 2026

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