Headache after Brain injury

Disclaimer: This information sheet is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child.

What is it?

Headaches are common and often expected after a head injury. They are a part of the process of healing. The headaches often get less severe and decrease in frequency over time.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of headaches vary with each child but may include;

• Throbbing pain - diffuse or focal
• Fatigue
• Dislike of bright light or noise
• Abdominal symptoms such as nausea.
• Relief after a period of rest/sleep

Who do I see and how is it diagnosed?

Your local doctor will examine your child and exclude any other medical cause for headache (eg visual problems). Investigations are often not needed but may include CT (computerised tomography) scans of the brain.

What is the treatment?

There are some techniques that may help in preventing the headache such as;

• Adequate rest periods.
• Adequate fluid intake.
• Try to identify what causes the headache (eg excess fatigue, noise, and stress) and avoid the situation. A diary may help in identifying the cause of headaches.
• Avoid bright lights and avoid going out in the hottest part of the day.

Treatments

• If a headache should occur the child should be allowed take a break or rest in a quiet place.
• Medication can be used and to be effective should be given at the start of the headache. Paracetamol (Panadol) and ibuprofen (Nurofen) are commonly used medications and can be obtained without a prescription.
• Preventive treatment (regular medications) for severe headaches may be considered and your doctor can discuss these options with you and your child.

If the child is at school the teachers should be made aware of how to best manage headaches and the need for the child to feel comfortable asking to take a break or medication.

Rehabilitation Department The Children's Hospital at Westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Rd & Hainsworth St, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, 2145 Tel: (02) 9845 2132 - Fax: (02) 9845 0685 http://www.chw.edu.au/rehabilitation/