Dealing with headaches can be a challenging experience for anyone. If you've ever had a headache, you understand the discomfort it brings. While I am fortunate not to experience headaches often, the few times I have had them were quite severe. Therefore, I can empathize with both children and adults who suffer from frequent headaches. Naturally, when your child complains of a headache, you may worry that it could indicate a more serious underlying issue.
Recognizing Warning Signs
It is essential to know that the majority of headaches in children do not indicate a brain tumor or meningitis. However, as a parent, you should be aware of certain warning signs that necessitate a visit to the doctor. Take your child to the doctor if they:
- Experience a headache following a head injury, regardless of its severity.
- Have a headache upon waking up or worsens in the morning.
- Show signs of a fever along with the headache.
- Complain of pain or stiffness in the back of their neck when bending their head towards their chest.
- Display confusion, avoidance of eye contact, excessive drowsiness, irritability, or persistent fussiness.
- Are vomiting and unable to retain fluids.
- Have a headache that persists for more than a few days.
- Have chronic headaches that are getting worse or changing in nature or intensity.
- If, as a parent, you are genuinely concerned about your child's well-being and feel they should be checked by a doctor.
Addressing Headaches Naturally
Fortunately, many children's headaches can be managed using holistic methods and natural remedies. Here are some effective strategies:
Tip #1: Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is a common cause of headaches in children. It is crucial to ensure your child drinks an adequate amount of fluids daily.
How much fluid should your child consume daily? A simple rule of thumb is to divide your child's body weight in pounds by two to determine the minimum number of ounces of fluids they should drink each day. For example, a 50-pound child should aim to consume at least 25 ounces of fluids daily. On hot days or during physical activity when your child is sweating, they may need to drink even more.
Water is an excellent choice for hydration. However, when your child is dehydrated, beverages with electrolytes can be beneficial in replenishing lost minerals, maintaining hydration, and reducing the frequency of headaches. Consider the following options:
- Coconut water: Rich in electrolytes, coconut water is a fantastic choice to keep cells hydrated. It can be consumed as is or mixed with unsweetened juice to suit your child's taste.
- Herbal teas: Chamomile tea is known for its calming properties and ability to alleviate pain and inflammation. Peppermint tea can help reduce nausea and alleviate headaches. Adding honey for children over one year old can enhance the flavor and provide immune-boosting benefits.
- Bone broth: Bone broth offers hydration and numerous health benefits. Use it as a base for soups or in cooking to increase your child's fluid intake.
Tip #2: Increase Magnesium Intake
Magnesium deficiency is widespread and can contribute to headaches. Magnesium helps relax the body and mind, making it beneficial for headache relief. There are different forms of magnesium available, with magnesium glycinate being particularly calming. Magnesium citrate can aid in relieving constipation, a common issue among children.
When it comes to dosage, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for magnesium is approximately 2 milligrams per pound of body weight. However, many individuals may require higher doses. As a general guideline, you can consider taking up to five times your body weight in milligrams of magnesium. Epsom salts can also be used to passively increase magnesium levels and provide headache relief.
Sharing this information with other parents can help them support their children in managing headaches effectively.
The article Effective Strategies for Managing Your Child’s Headaches was originally published on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine refers only to alternative treatments that are not considered to be effective in treating diseases. These include traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), homeopathy, chiropractic and acupuncture as well as nutritional therapy such like reiki.
Alternative medicine could also refer to any practice that has not been supported by scientific evidence but is used in clinical practice. You can use meditation, hypnosis and yoga to achieve this.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic medicines are safe because they are not harmful drugs but natural remedies for people who have been using them for centuries.
Many illnesses have been treated with them, including arthritis, chronic pain and asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes (heart disease), obesity, depression anxiety, stress, insomnia, infertility, and sexual dysfunction.
Millions of people worldwide suffer from various diseases and can also use holistic medicines. These include homeopathy and acupuncture as well as chiropractic care, massage therapy, homeopathy, herbal treatments, biofeedback, yoga, meditation, hypnosis, nutrition counseling, physical exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies address the whole person instead of just the symptoms.
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs or surgery for its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not considered a substitute for conventional treatment but rather an addition to helping patients who want to take control of their healthcare by choosing what they believe is most appropriate.
Naturopathy on the other side is meant to be used in conjunction with conventional medical procedures. It is a holistic approach to treating the whole body, mind, as well as the spirit. There are many forms and types of naturopathy.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths don't usually prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths will work with the patient's family medicine and may refer patients outpatients to specialists, if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention, wellness, and education about diet & exercise.
- Naturopaths are very conscious of lifestyle factors. They emphasize nutrition, sleep and stress management as well as exercise and mental health.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists can provide personalized care, based on the individual needs of each patient.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies license naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians can be registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- Naturobiotic therapists are licensed by the United States National Board of Medical Examiners.
- Homeopaths are licensed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one's health. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What are the 5 domains in integrative medicine?
The five domains of integrative medicine include mind-body, nutrition, social determinants, lifestyle, and prevention. These five areas cover all aspects of health care including spiritual, physical, and environmental well being.
Integrative medicine provides a comprehensive approach to the treatment of disease, health, and well-being. It encompasses both conventional medical treatments as well as complementary therapies like acupuncture and yoga, meditation and massage therapy.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic Medicine isn't as dangerous as it seems, but there are still risks when you use this treatment. Side effects include nausea, headaches, dizziness. drowsiness. diarrhea. constipation. These side effects should be understood and balanced against the benefits associated with alternative treatments like acupuncture.
However, there are no known cases of death due to the use of holistic medicines.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan.
Statistics
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
nccih.nih.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
doi.org
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
How To
How to deal when your girlfriend trusts an alternative medicine.
There are many resources available online for anyone who is dealing with a loved person suffering from a mental illness. It is difficult to find information about alternative medicine for someone you love.
There appears to be a significant divide between the groups. Both those who have doubts about traditional medicine and those who see the benefits.
What happens when you meet someone who believes that there are alternative treatments to mental health problems?
Because you don’t know where to start, you may feel confused and frustrated. What do you tell your partner if he says he would rather go to an acupuncturist than his doctor? Or when he says he'd rather have antidepressants than eat gluten-free.
It is important that you ask questions. It can save you a lot of pain later.
But how do you ask these difficult questions without offending him? What if he says that he doesn't trust doctors? What if he says he doesn't trust doctors?
Or what if she insists that antidepressants work but she doesn't believe so? Do you need to tell her that she's wrong
This is where it gets complicated. She may be even more offended if it is pointed out that she is wrong.
Alternativly, you might suggest that she sees an psychiatrist. This could lead to more problems than solutions. You may get mad at her for suggesting this. She might think you are trying to control her mind.
So, what can you do now?
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Effective Strategies for Managing Your Child’s Headaches
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/health-tips/tips-for-fighting-your-childs-headaches/
Published Date: Mon, 30 Dec 2024 22:15:48 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What are examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine refers only to alternative treatments that are not considered to be effective in treating diseases. These include traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), homeopathy, chiropractic and acupuncture as well as nutritional therapy such like reiki.
Alternative medicine could also refer to any practice that has not been supported by scientific evidence but is used in clinical practice. You can use meditation, hypnosis and yoga to achieve this.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic medicines are safe because they are not harmful drugs but natural remedies for people who have been using them for centuries.
Many illnesses have been treated with them, including arthritis, chronic pain and asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes (heart disease), obesity, depression anxiety, stress, insomnia, infertility, and sexual dysfunction.
Millions of people worldwide suffer from various diseases and can also use holistic medicines. These include homeopathy and acupuncture as well as chiropractic care, massage therapy, homeopathy, herbal treatments, biofeedback, yoga, meditation, hypnosis, nutrition counseling, physical exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies address the whole person instead of just the symptoms.
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs or surgery for its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not considered a substitute for conventional treatment but rather an addition to helping patients who want to take control of their healthcare by choosing what they believe is most appropriate.
Naturopathy on the other side is meant to be used in conjunction with conventional medical procedures. It is a holistic approach to treating the whole body, mind, as well as the spirit. There are many forms and types of naturopathy.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths don't usually prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths will work with the patient's family medicine and may refer patients outpatients to specialists, if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention, wellness, and education about diet & exercise.
- Naturopaths are very conscious of lifestyle factors. They emphasize nutrition, sleep and stress management as well as exercise and mental health.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists can provide personalized care, based on the individual needs of each patient.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies license naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians can be registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- Naturobiotic therapists are licensed by the United States National Board of Medical Examiners.
- Homeopaths are licensed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one's health. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What are the 5 domains in integrative medicine?
The five domains of integrative medicine include mind-body, nutrition, social determinants, lifestyle, and prevention. These five areas cover all aspects of health care including spiritual, physical, and environmental well being.
Integrative medicine provides a comprehensive approach to the treatment of disease, health, and well-being. It encompasses both conventional medical treatments as well as complementary therapies like acupuncture and yoga, meditation and massage therapy.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic Medicine isn't as dangerous as it seems, but there are still risks when you use this treatment. Side effects include nausea, headaches, dizziness. drowsiness. diarrhea. constipation. These side effects should be understood and balanced against the benefits associated with alternative treatments like acupuncture.
However, there are no known cases of death due to the use of holistic medicines.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan.
Statistics
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
nccih.nih.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
doi.org
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
How To
How to deal when your girlfriend trusts an alternative medicine.
There are many resources available online for anyone who is dealing with a loved person suffering from a mental illness. It is difficult to find information about alternative medicine for someone you love.
There appears to be a significant divide between the groups. Both those who have doubts about traditional medicine and those who see the benefits.
What happens when you meet someone who believes that there are alternative treatments to mental health problems?
Because you don’t know where to start, you may feel confused and frustrated. What do you tell your partner if he says he would rather go to an acupuncturist than his doctor? Or when he says he'd rather have antidepressants than eat gluten-free.
It is important that you ask questions. It can save you a lot of pain later.
But how do you ask these difficult questions without offending him? What if he says that he doesn't trust doctors? What if he says he doesn't trust doctors?
Or what if she insists that antidepressants work but she doesn't believe so? Do you need to tell her that she's wrong
This is where it gets complicated. She may be even more offended if it is pointed out that she is wrong.
Alternativly, you might suggest that she sees an psychiatrist. This could lead to more problems than solutions. You may get mad at her for suggesting this. She might think you are trying to control her mind.
So, what can you do now?
