Help!
My 8 yo son went to the ER last night with a severe headache and nausea. He was diagnosed with a migraine and was given an iv cocktail of meds. He left the hospital 7 hrs later feeling better, but then woke up this morning with a headache again!! Is this normal? Should I be concerned and take him back in?! Tks!
Hi sdobko,
Thank you for reaching out to us - we're glad you're here! I am however, so sorry to hear about your son, that's frustrating.
It's not uncommon to have recurring migraine attacks. Has he been referred to his doctor for an exam? If not, that's the first place I'd start - with his doctor.
When my son was about nine years old, he began having recurrent migraine attacks. I (we) kept a detailed diary for three months, maybe longer it was about 13 years ago, and discovered what his strong triggers were. They included dark chocolate, dehydration, irregular sleeping patterns, skipping meals and getting overheated. If you haven't kept a detailed migraine diary I would encourage you to keep one. Let me share this information on migraine diary's with you; https://migraine.com/blog/keeping-migraine-diary-basics/ and our section on children and teens; https://migraine.com/blog/keeping-migraine-diary-basics/.
I hope that helps, keep me posted on how he is doing,
NancyRecurrent migraine attacks are common in the migraine patients. But if the there is chronic headache, you should definitely consult your doctor as soon as possible. This is because my aunt is also suffering from migraine. She often had chronic headache also had changes in headache pattern and recurrent migraine attacks. She was very unresponsive to its treatments. It was very difficult for her to deal with it. Later on, she went through certain tests, which disclosed that she is having a tumor in her brain. She went through surgery and best radiation therapy to destroy the remaining cells.
Hope your son get well soon and take care.Oh! I feel sorry for your situation. Is it hereditary? Give proper treatment for him, he will be cured soon. My prayers are with you.
One thing I wish I had done ten years earlier than I did, is see a Headache Specialist - a Neurologist who ONLY treat headache and migraine. There are headache centers in most big cities, and since covid there are many who will see patients virtually if they live too far.
I got much better treatment, education, and understanding from a specialist. He just knew more, much more, than my GP or general neurologist knew.
I’m so sorry your son is having migraines.
Kate 🌷
This is SUCH great advice, Kate. Thank you for sharing how working with a migraine specialist improved your situation. We heartily recommend those who are living with frequent migraine to have evaluation and treatment by a migraine specialist. Unfortunately, there is a shortage of this type of doctor (perhaps working with those of us with migraine is a downer?). Whatever the reason, it can be difficult to find a specialist close by. As you said, many people travel hours to see these specialists due to the help, compassion, and knowledge they provide.
For those reading along who are interested in seeing a specialist - here are a couple of links that may help you find one nearby: https://headaches.org/resources/healthcare-provider-finder/. And: https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/find-a-doctor/. These lists are unfortunately not comprehensive in nature- so do your own research to find options in your area. As Kate says here- the key is to ensure they are a neurologist and migraine specialist.
Thanks, Kate! Warmly- Holly -migraine.com team.
I totally agree! The best thing I ever did for myself, and one I suggest often, is seeing a true migraine/headache disease expert. My doctor has made a huge impact in my care.
How are you today? Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator Migraine.com Team
