Headache

Table of Contents

Some children may have headaches that occur only occasionally, while others may experience headaches frequently over the long term. Chronic headaches can affect school attendance and performance in many ways. 

Some headache triggers for learners may include:

  • needing to concentrate for long periods
  • using screens
  • fluorescent lighting
  • loud noises, strong smells, and stress

Learners may share:

  • Tasks take longer when they have a headache
  • Headaches make focusing difficult
  • They tire easily

Questions to ask:

  • Has a head injury occurred?
  • Is the headache severe?
  • Are there other symptoms observed: vomiting, fever, blurred vision, or dizziness?
  • Have the parents shared that the learner has chronic headaches or other related conditions requiring ongoing health services? If so, does the student have an Individualized Health Plan (IHP)?

General actions if a child experiences a headache while at school or in their program: 

  • Communicate with the learner’s parents
  • Follow the health service instructions provided by the parent to the school or IHP/Emergency Plan
  • If the headache is associated with significant head trauma and a change of level in consciousness, call EMS
  • Offer the student a snack if they have indicated that they are hungry and have not eaten
  • Offer the student fluids, especially if the student has not had adequate fluids during the day
  • Offer empathy and validation to the learner’s experience with a headache

School personnel can support students with chronic headaches by recognizing the reality of the pain and discomfort the student reports. Students with chronic headaches may experience frustration, annoyance, fear, and isolation. These emotions can make headaches more complex. 

Should a student stay in school when they are experiencing a headache and no other symptoms?

For most students, the answer is yes. What school looks like during this time is dependent on an individual's needs, their program or plan.