Headaches usually are brief and can be caused by many things, including too little sleep, eye strain, stress, sinus infections, or a bump to the head. Some headaches last longer and come with other symptoms. Very rarely, headaches can be a sign of something serious. Signs and Symptoms The two most common types of headaches in kids and teens are tension headaches and migraine headaches. Signs of a tension headache: a feeling of squeezing or pressure around the front, sides, and back of the head dull, steady pain pain is not made worse by activity no nausea or vomiting muscles of the scalp, face, neck, and shoulders may be sore to the touch Signs of a migraine headache: pounding, throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head pain is worsened by rapid motion dizziness, feeling tired nausea, vomiting, belly pain seeing spots or halos sensitivity to light, noise, and/or smells What to Do Most headaches respond to home care. To help ease pain, have your child: lie down in a dark, quiet room drink liquids take acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed put a cool, moist cloth across the forehead or eyes Get Medical Care if the Headaches: happen once a month or more don't go away easily are more painful than usual prevent your child from participating in everyday activities follow a head injury or loss of consciousness come with any of these symptoms: decreased alertness or confusion fever or lasting vomiting changes in vision weakness skin rash neck pain or stiffness Think Prevention! Some types of headaches can be prevented by avoiding certain things that can cause them, such as getting too little sleep, some medicines, not drinking enough liquids, and using the computer or watching TV for a long time. Back to Articles Related Articles Headaches Lots of kids have headaches from time to time. Find out more about headaches in this article for kids. Read More First Aid: Falls Although most result in mild bumps and bruises, some falls can cause serious injuries that need medical attention. Read More First Aid: Head Injuries Learn about the different types of head injuries, and find out what to do if your child is seriously injuried. Read More Head Injuries Head injuries can be external or internal. Learn more about both kinds, how to prevent them, and what to do if your child is injured. Read More Concussions In a concussion, the brain shifts inside the skull. This can cause a sudden - but usually temporary - disruption in a person's ability to function properly and feel well. Here's what to do if you suspect a concussion. Read More How to Safely Give Ibuprofen What kind? How much? How often? Find out how to give this pain medicine. Read More Headaches Almost everyone gets headaches. So how do you know if a headache is just a passing pain or something more? Read More Migraine Headaches If you've ever had a migraine, you know that these headaches can cause severe pain and other symptoms. Read about migraine causes, treatments, prevention tips, and lots more. Read More Headaches Headaches affect kids as well as adults. Learn about common causes and when to talk to a doctor. Read More How to Safely Give Acetaminophen What kind? How much? How often? Find out how to give this pain and fever medicine. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.