Pediatric Neurologist Elie Rizkala, MD, FAAP, answers your questions

How often do headaches occur in children and teens?

Headaches are common during childhood and become more common during adolescence.

Approximately one third of children who are at least seven years of age, and half of those who are at least 15 years of age, have headaches.

Before puberty, boys are affected more frequently than girls, but after the onset of puberty, headaches occur more frequently in girls.

When should I bring my child in for an evaluation?

Most headaches in children are not serious. Some causes may include migraine headaches, headaches within the context of a sinus infection, head trauma such as a bruise, tension or stress.

Although rare, there are more serious problems that could occur within the brain such as a brain tumor or a bleed inside the brain.

Parents should seek medical care for an evaluation if your child's headache occurs at least once a week; follows an injury to the head; accompanies vomiting and visual changes; and is accompanied by a fever, along with neck pain and stiffness.

Make an Appointment with the MetroHealth Pediatric Neurology Team

Patients are seen Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. at MetroHealth Medical Center. Special times are available for urgent requests. To schedule an appointment, call 216-778-2222; a referal is required. Learn what happens during an office visit and how to prepare for an appointment.

Child Neurology is located at:

MetroHealth Medical Center
Women & Children's Pavilion, 1^st Floor
2500 MetroHealth Drive
Cleveland, OH 44109
[map and directions]

About the Expert: Dr. Elie Rizkala

Elie Rizkala, MD, FAAP Director, Division of Pediatric Neurology Assistant Professor, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Specialties: Pediatric Neurology, Children's Health Areas of Interest: Cerebral Palsy, Seizure Disorders, Learning Disorders Locations: MetroHealth Medical Center, MetroHealth Strongsville Health Center To schedule an appointment, call 216-778-2222.