Nurofen for Children 7+ Years Pain & Fever Relief Chewable Capsules
Nurofen For Children Soft Chewable Capsules provides temporary relief of mild to moderate pain such as a sore throat, dental pain, ear ache, headache,
Pain & fever
Headaches in Children: Causes and ways to relieve
It’s been a long day at school and your child comes home complaining of a headache. As parents, we worry when our children complain of pain. Headaches are a common type of pain in children. Headaches can have an impact on your child’s life, causing them to miss school or other activities so it is important to understand them.
In this article:
What causes a headache in children?
There are different types of headaches and reasons as to why they occur. Most headaches in children are not serious but you should always seek medical advice if you are concerned. Some general causes that may trigger a headache include:
- Cold or flu
- Not getting enough sleep
- Certain foods
- Stress
- Skipping meals
How to relieve a headache in children
If your child has a headache, you can try the following to help make them feel more comfortable:
- Lie them down in a quiet, dark room to rest
- Put a cool, moist cloth across their forehead
- Encourage them to have water and something to eat
- Massaging or stretching the head and neck muscles if they are tight or tender
Some other natural ways to help children with headaches include relaxation techniques, making sure they are getting enough sleep and encouraging them to exercise regularly. The use of a headache diary can also be useful to keep track of your child’s headaches and identify possible triggers.
Giving your child pain relief medicine can help. Nurofen for Children contains ibuprofen, which is suitable for providing relief of headaches in children. It comes in a liquid formulation for children over 3 months, or as soft chewable capsules for children over 7 years old. Make sure that you give your child the medication at a dose that is suitable for their age and weight according to the instructions on the label.
When to see a doctor
Most headaches in children are not serious. However, if you are at all concerned about your child’s headache, consult your doctor.
See your doctor if your child’s headache:
- Is a new kind of headache for your child
- Is reoccurring, or happens more than once a week
- Is more severe than usual
- Wakes them from their sleep or starts/is worse in the morning
- Disrupts your child’s home, school or social life
- Is not being relieved by pain relievers
- Concerns you for any reason.
See your doctor urgently if your child’s headache is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Drowsiness or difficulty waking up
- Vomiting
- Unexplained fever
- Weakness in their arms or legs
- Sensitivity to light or any other vision, hearing or speech problems
- Problems with walking, balance or coordination
- Change in behaviour, confusion or memory issues
- Weight loss
- Any other symptoms that concern you
If you are worried or unsure what you should do, seek medical advice for support.
First published: 24th May 2021
Last updated: 9th October 2023
Important information
This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.
Always read the label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Do not use if you have a stomach ulcer. Do not give to babies under 3 months of age. Seek medical advice for children under 12 months of age. Reckitt Benckiser, Auckland. TAPS-NA12948. RB-M-36509.
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