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Psychological factors in childhood headaches

Kathleen Farmer1, David Dunn, Eric Scott

  • 1Headache Care Center, Springfield, MO, USA. kfarmer@primarycareed.com

Seminars in Pediatric Neurology
|June 15, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Recurrent childhood headaches are often migraines, influenced by genetics and emotional factors. Understanding these complexities is key to effective management and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Child Psychology

Background:

  • Recurrent headaches in children are frequently migraines, often stemming from a genetic predisposition and a lower headache threshold.
  • The emotional component of migraine attacks intensifies with frequency and resistance to conventional treatments.

Observation:

  • Childhood headaches present unique challenges due to parental anxiety about serious pathology, a lack of evidence-based pharmacological treatments, and a tendency to view them as psychological.
  • Factors such as school, social dynamics, family environment, and parental divorce significantly influence headache experiences.
  • Children with migraines require specific coping strategies to manage a sensitive nervous system, with potential for secondary gains from headaches.

Findings:

  • The article explores the multifaceted nature of childhood headaches, integrating genetic, emotional, and environmental influences.
  • It examines psychiatric comorbidities associated with migraines in children and outlines treatment approaches.
  • The role of psychological interventions in managing childhood migraines is highlighted.

Implications:

  • This comprehensive approach is crucial for demystifying childhood headaches and improving patient outcomes.
  • It emphasizes the need for integrated care addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of pediatric migraines.
  • Findings support the development of evidence-based treatment strategies for recurrent headaches in children.

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