Parents, don't ignore: Your kid's study-time headaches could be migraine not an excuse, says Hyderabad doctor

Headaches are no longer just an adult concern—an increasing number of children are now experiencing painful, recurring migraines. While it's easy to mistake a child's complaint as an excuse to skip school or avoid homework, experts warn that these headaches may point to a deeper neurological issue that often goes undiagnosed. With symptoms difficult for young children to describe and several potential triggers in today’s fast-paced world, migraines in children are emerging as a troubling yet under-discussed health issue.

According to Hyderabad-based neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar, migraines in kids as young as five are not uncommon. While the condition can be difficult to diagnose due to vague or misinterpreted symptoms, effective treatments do exist. He notes that children often struggle to articulate their pain clearly, which may lead parents or teachers to dismiss the issue or misunderstand the cause, sometimes attributing it to laziness or academic avoidance.


What could be the cause?

When asked about possible causes, the doctor acknowledged that in a few cases, excessive screen time and reduced physical activity might play a role. However, in most instances, migraines are linked to a family history of the condition. This suggests a strong genetic predisposition, rather than being purely lifestyle-induced.

Parents also raised concerns about diet and sleep, particularly the consumption of ultra-processed foods, low protein and fat intake, and high stress from academics. Dr. Kumar emphasised that poor sleep and chronic stress are well-known migraine triggers for both adults and children, and they may be particularly potent in today’s high-pressure environment for kids.