What is the most common form of pediatric headache?

Tension-type headache is recognized as the most common form of pediatric headache. This type of headache is characterized by a feeling of pressure or tightness, often described as a band-like sensation around the head. Children may experience mild to moderate pain, which can be episodic or chronic. The prevalence of tension-type headaches in children and adolescents is significantly higher compared to other headache forms, making it a primary concern in pediatric populations.

Unlike migraines, which are more common in adolescents and involve specific symptoms like nausea and photophobia, tension-type headaches are generally less severe and can result from various factors such as stress, anxiety, fatigue, or poor posture. This broader range of contributing factors helps explain why tension-type headaches are more frequently reported in younger individuals.

By focusing on the lifestyle and environmental factors that contribute to tension-type headaches, healthcare providers can offer effective strategies to manage and reduce the frequency of these headaches in pediatric patients. This underscores the importance of recognizing tension-type headaches as the predominant headache type in the pediatric population.