Yes, children can get headaches - some well before the age of 10. Before puberty
(when hormones haven't yet kicked in), headaches are far more common in boys
than girls. Never ignore a child who comes to you complaining, "my head
hurts." Pain can be triggered by certain factors such as food. If your
child is prone to migraines or chronic headaches, here's a list of things you
shouldn't buy at the grocery store:
- processed meats: hot dogs, sausages, and lunch meats (bologna, salami)
- caffeine products: cola drinks, caffeinated sodas, and coffee
- products that contain MSG (monosodium glutamate): frozen foods, canned meat,
prepared sauces, bouillion, certain Chinese foods
- old or aged cheeses
- chocolate
- nuts
- figs
- sauerkraut
- aspartame
It may help to keep a "headache diary" with your child to record
events surrounding the headaches. This way, you can figure out the root cause
of the problem and take action to prevent future head pain. See a doctor if
your child's headaches worsen or become more frequent.
