Recurrent headaches in children and adolescents: diagnosis and treatment

Recurrent headache is a frequent problem in children and adolescents. With a careful history and physical examination few errors in diagnosis will be made. Fortunately, few headaches are of pathological origin. The most common headaches are migraine and muscle contraction headaches. For many sufferers, a few simple suggestions and proper use of analgesics will provide effective management. The best documented treatments for more difficult headaches are stress management therapies. Recently stress management treatments that can be administered by professionals not trained in psychology have made these approaches more accessible.