Clinical Practice and
Referral Guidelines

Pediatric Migraine Headache

Both new onset and chronic headaches are a common complaint for the primary care pediatrician. In 2012, Kids Health First developed its guideline for pediatric migraine based on parameters established by the American Academy of Neurology’s Practice Parameter: Evaluation of Children and Adolescents with Recurrent Headaches and the American Academy of Neurology’s Practice Parameter: Pharmacological Treatment of Migraine Headaches in Children and Adolescents.

This guideline includes recommendations on:

1. History and evaluation, which includes a thorough neurological exam and potential diagnostic imaging and other studies, if indicated;
2. Treatment, which  may include lifestyle changes, analgesics, rescue medications, preventative therapy and referral to a pediatric neurologist.

If you are a physician and would like more information on the Clinical Practice and Referral Guideline for Pediatric Migraine, please contact us at quality@kidshealthfirst.com.

If you are a parent and are concerned about your child’s headaches, please consult with your child’s pediatrician or primary care physician.

This guideline was developed in collaboration with pediatric neurologists at Georgia Pediatric Subspecialists. The recommendations in the guideline do not indicate an exclusive course of treatment. The intent is to build a consensus of care in the pediatric community and provide a framework for clinical decision-making. Last revised 1/2013.