Teenagers can have basilar migraine, which is characterized by slurred speech, dizziness, ringing in the ears, double vision, unsteadiness, numbness or tingling, and a decreased awareness of their surroundings. Luckily, as many as one third of all children will outgrow migraine. But many will go on to have migraine in adolescence and other children who were previously migraine-free, will begin to develop migraine in puberty, particularly girls. There are many things you can do to help your child. After getting a proper diagnosis, the next step is encouraging your child to identify his or her triggers.
Triggers are internal or external influences that provoke an attack.
For some children diet is a key trigger. For others, stress, missed sleep or skipping meals, changes in weather, or changes to routine can bring on migraine. You can also help your child by recognizing the early warning signs of a migraine attack, such as changes in mood, extreme sensitivity to light or noises, unusual pallor, nasal congestion and redness or puffiness around the eyes. During a migraine attack, a dark quiet room, ice packs and loose clothing are comforting. Avoid strong smelling cleaners, solvents, paint, air fresheners or perfumes.