Do not exceed the maximum dosage and frequency for children, 13-22 milligrams per pound within a 12-hour period. Ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil): If acetaminophen does not initially work, you can also give one dose of ibuprofen. Do not exceed the maximum dosage and frequency for children, 22-33 milligrams per pound within a 4-hour period. If you do, be sure to always read the label for any medication to determine the right dose based on your child's weight.Īcetaminophen (Tylenol): You can give your child one dose to help reduce headache. Use Caution with Over-the-Counter Pain Medicineĭon't be tempted to turn to over-the-counter pain medication every time your child complains of head pain. Other things like ice packs, warm shower or baths, naps in a dark room, and head and neck Home Care for Children's HeadachesĪnyone who has ever had a mild, occasional headache knows rest and relaxation is often the best treatment. It's important to know when headaches may be a symptom of something more serious. In this article, learn when to involve your pediatrician. While most headaches are harmless and go away within a few hours, recurrent headaches of any type can cause school problems, behavioral problems, and/or depression. Head pain in babies and children too young to tell you their head hurts are often fussier, crankier, and unable sleep. "My head hurts." Across the U.S., parents hear this complaint from their children and teenagers at a rate so frequent that it can be hard to know whether it is, in fact, a painful headache (or just an excuse to stay home from school).
By: Namrata Patel, MD & Steven Leber, MD, PhD, FAAP