How to Handle Your Child's First Migraine

Learn how to recognize, comfort, and manage your child's first migraine episode with practical steps and when to seek medical help.

1. Recognize the Signs. Children's migraines often look different from adult migraines. Your child might complain of head pain on one or both sides, but they may also experience nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light or sound, or stomach pain. Some children become very quiet and want to lie down, while others might seem irritable or confused. Younger children who can't express their pain well might simply seem unwell, refuse to eat, or want to sleep. Pay attention to any unusual behavior or complaints of feeling sick, especially if your child seems bothered by normal lights or sounds.
2. Create a Calm Environment. Move your child to a quiet, dark room away from bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells. Turn off TVs, phones, and other electronics. Close curtains or blinds to dim the room as much as possible. Keep the temperature comfortable and ensure good air circulation. Speak softly and avoid sudden movements. This peaceful environment can help reduce the intensity of their symptoms and provide some relief while the migraine runs its course.
3. Provide Comfort and Care. Help your child lie down with their head slightly elevated using a pillow. Offer small sips of water if they can keep it down, as dehydration can make migraines worse. A cool, damp washcloth on their forehead or the back of their neck might provide some relief. Gentle scalp massage may help some children, but stop if it makes the pain worse. Stay nearby to offer comfort, but avoid asking too many questions or trying to engage them in conversation. Let them rest and sleep if possible.
4. Track Important Details. Write down when the migraine started, what symptoms your child experienced, how long it lasted, and anything that might have triggered it. Note what they ate that day, how much they slept the night before, any stressful events, or changes in routine. Also record what helped and what didn't work for comfort. This information will be valuable when you speak with your child's healthcare provider and can help identify patterns or triggers for future prevention.
5. Know When It's Over. Most childhood migraines are shorter than adult migraines, often lasting 1-4 hours. Your child might fall asleep and wake up feeling much better, or the pain might gradually fade away. After the migraine ends, your child might feel tired or slightly off for a few hours. Offer light, bland foods and plenty of fluids. Let them return to normal activities gradually, and don't push them to do too much too quickly.