Headaches are a common ailment caused by various factors, including stress, dehydration, and lack of sleep. While most headaches are not serious and can be treated with over-the-counter medications or lifestyle changes, there are times when a headache can indicate an underlying medical condition that requires urgent care.
This article will discuss the top signs your child’s headache requires medical attention.
1. Thunderclap Headache
A thunderclap headache is a sudden and severe headache that peaks within seconds to minutes. It can be a sign of a serious medical condition, such as a brain aneurysm, bleeding in the brain, or meningitis.
2. Headache with Fever
If your child has a headache along with a fever, it could be a sign of an infection. This could be a viral or bacterial infection, such as the flu or meningitis, and it could be serious.
3. Headache with Neck Stiffness
If your child has a headache along with neck stiffness, it could be a sign of meningitis. Meningitis is a serious infection that affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Other symptoms may include fever, vomiting, and sensitivity to light.
4. Headache After Head Injury
A headache after a head injury could be a sign of a concussion or a more serious brain injury. Other symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, confusion, and memory loss.
5. Headache with a Stiff Jaw
If you have a headache along with a stiff jaw, it could be a sign of temporal arteritis. Temporal arteritis is an inflammation of the blood vessels in the head and neck, and it can cause headaches, jaw pain, and vision changes.
What to Do If My Child Has These Symptoms?
Remember, these signs may or may not be symptoms of a serious medical condition. If over-the-counter medications are not working for your child or these symptoms happen frequently, you may need to consult urgent care to have them checked.
Your child will be asked about their medical history, including headache history. Make sure to write down symptoms and their frequency. Take note of any medication they are taking as well. Additionally, write down any questions you may have about your child before going to urgent care. During the appointment, a physical exam will be conducted, and the doctor may order further tests, such as an MRI or CT scan.
Conclusion
Headaches are common in children. Most of the time, they aren’t a cause for concern and can be treated with adequate rest and the right medication. However, these signs may point out to more serious conditions, so it’s best to have them checked as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications and improve outcomes.
Bring your child to Your Kids Urgent Care for prompt and reliable kids urgent care services. With our experienced team and state-of-the-art facilities, you can trust that your child will receive the best care possible. Whether it’s a fever, a broken bone, or a sudden illness, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more.
