Lifestyle and home remedies

OTC pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), are usually effective in reducing headache pain. Before giving your child pain medication, keep these points in mind:

• Read labels carefully and use only the dosages recommended for your child.
• Don't give doses more frequently than recommended.
• Don't give your child OTC pain medication more than two or three days a week. Daily use can trigger a medication overuse headache, a type of headache caused by overuse of pain medications.
• Children and teenagers recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms should never take aspirin. This is because aspirin has been linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, in such children. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.

In addition to OTC pain medications, the following can help ease your child's headache:

• Rest and relaxation. Encourage your child to rest in a dark, quiet room. Sleeping often resolves headaches in children.
• Use a cool, wet compress. While your child rests, place a cool, wet cloth on his or her forehead.
• Offer a healthy snack. If your child hasn't eaten in a while, offer a piece of fruit, whole-wheat crackers or low-fat cheese. Not eating can make headaches worse.