Son w/headaches- go to ent or neurologist? - Neurology Message Board

shannonrainy · 12-08-2006, 07:31 PM

I have a son who turned 12 today that has had chronic headaches since he was 9. We got him reading glasses. But he complains about headaches at least twice a week. He has bad allergies and takes medicine for them. One doctor said to go to an ent. Another said to go to a neurologist because he has had them so bad he has fainted and vomited (2 times). He has had a ekg done since he fainted,which came back fine. He also gets flushed looking. It's the weirdest thing. Like he has a sunburn,or fever. I have no idea why, if it's all related or what. He says he blacks out sometimes. I don't know where to start I guess. It's really hard to trust doctors and to put your child through all that, not that I want my child to suffer,don't get me wrong. Does anyone know what any treatments would be? The doctor said he doesn't have migraines because he says he is not sensitive to light. He says it just hurts on his right temple,I think. If anyone has any suggestions,I'd greatly appreciate it.

GuyJonny · 12-09-2006, 09:18 AM

Hi shannonrainy
I know how frustrating it is to go to so many doctors and not really get any answers. I've been there. But a neurologist treats so much more than just migraines. They are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of nervous system disorders, including diseases of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. If your son has had headaches for 3 years now I would start at the top and go to a neurologist. Get a MRI and or a CT scan to rule out any serious condition. Then go from there.
Good luck to your son.

NJpeg · 12-09-2006, 02:53 PM

My son (12) also gets migraines and sees a pediatric neurologist about twice a year. He's been seeing her for about two years now and is on a preventative medicine - he is doing much better.

mcpepper · 12-10-2006, 06:07 PM

Hi My daughter has headaches also, since she was 10. She is now 16. she did get rid of her headaches when we found out she has Lyme disease and Babesia. After she stopped treatment the headaches came back. I took her to a neuro and he gave her topomax..she was doing a little better but then the topomax hurt her stomach so bad..nausea and unable to eat..so she had to stop it.
Headache is the number one symptom for kids with Lyme. It is a chronic illness..but it is treatable. Kids are at the highest risk for infection. If you want info on Lyme go to [url]www.**********************.org[/url]. or you can e-mail for a doctor in your state. Must be a recommended Lyme doc for adequate treatment.
Also the best OTC meds I have found to help her headaches is butterbur and magnesium chloride. There is a study on butterbur and headaches if you google it. She like the NOW brand, 75 mg. with feverfew..2xday.

I think here is a Lyme disease board on this site..may be some help there also.
Good luck

shannonrainy · 12-10-2006, 08:44 PM

Thank you so much for the replys. Very helpful.

Shannon