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Some people who have migraines as children stop getting them as they get older. But some people start getting them as teenagers and keep getting them as they get older.

People who don't get migraines don't always understand how distressing these attacks can be. They may think you're making a fuss if you're out of school with a headache or need to rest in a darkened room. But getting lots of migraines can stop you from doing the things you enjoy, and have a big effect on your life.¹

It might make you feel better to know that although migraines can feel terrible, they don't mean that there's anything seriously wrong, such as a brain tumor.

If you're a parent of a young child who gets migraines, you might be able to make them feel better by reassuring them that there's nothing seriously wrong.²

If you get migraines as a child, the good news is you might stop getting them when you reach puberty.³ There's more than a 50 percent chance that you'll stop getting them.

If you start getting migraines as a teenager, you'll probably still get them when you're an adult. But migraines tend not to be as bad when you get older.⁴

There are also things you can try yourself to help with migraines. To read more, see How to help yourself.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.