Management and behavior-modifying recommendation effects in childhood headache

Gungor M., GÜLER M. A., Karagoz Y. S.

PEDIATRICS INTERNATIONAL, vol.65, no.1, 2023 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 65 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2023
  • Doi Number: 10.1111/ped.15406
  • Journal Name: PEDIATRICS INTERNATIONAL
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Veterinary Science Database
  • Keywords: behavior-modifying recommendations, headache, migraine, primary headache disorders, secondary headache disorders, SCREEN TIME, ADOLESCENTS, CHILDREN, DEPRESSION, PREVALENCE, EXPOSURE, QUALITY, ANXIETY
  • Ataturk University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

BackgroundHeadaches are common in childhood. Recently, there has been an increasing trend toward pharmacological treatment. MethodsSecondary causes were excluded first in patients who attended our clinic with headache. Those without a secondary cause were evaluated as primary headache and classified into subgroups. Behavior-modifying recommendations (adequate and regular sleep, adequate and regular nutrition, adequate fluid intake, and restriction of screen exposure) were given to all patients. Patients were re-evaluated at 1, 3, and 6 months. Pharmacologic treatment was started at the end of the first month with follow-up at the third and sixth months for those who did not benefit from the behavior-modifying recommendations. ResultsA total of 875 patients presented with headache complaints, of which 30.6% were evaluated as primary headache. Behavior-modifying recommendations were beneficial for 23.1% with migraine with aura; 20.3% with migraine without aura, and 36.8% with tension-type headache. ConclusionSecondary causes should be excluded first in patients who present to the pediatric neurology clinic with headache. Behavioral modifications to change the lifestyle of patients diagnosed with primary headache should be tried before giving pharmacologic treatment.