Migraines and Other Headaches
Recognizing Migraine HeadachesOther Diagnostic Tools
CT Scan
CT (computed tomography) scans are also called CAT (computerized axial tomography) scans. These are fancy names for taking a picture of your brain. A neuro-imaging system allows doctors to map cross-sections of various parts of your body, including your brain. Scans are useful in detecting tumors, hemorrhages, and other serious causes of headaches.
MRI and MRA
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) are both painless picture-taking procedures. The MRI uses powerful magnets to detect serious brain abnormalities, such as tumors and hemorrhages. The MRA (magnetic resonance angiography) is a similar procedure used to observe the large blood vessels of the head to see if there are abnormalities or obstructions.
Angiography
Angiography is a more invasive procedure than MRI or MRA. A doctor inserts a small tube into a blood vessel. The tube is used to insert a dye into the blood vessel that shows if there has been a rupture. In many situations, MRIs and MRAs have replaced angiography.
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
An EEG is usually not a part of a doctor's study of headaches. It is a painless procedure in which electrodes, attached to a patient's scalp, show unusual brain wave patterns.
Lumbar Puncture (LP)
A lumbar puncture or spinal tap, as it is sometimes called, is not necessary in routine headache testing. Its major use is in diagnosing meningitis (infection of the linings of the brain) or encephalitis (infection of the brain itself).
Additional topics
- Migraines and Other Headaches - Recognizing Migraine Headaches - How You Can Help
- Migraines and Other Headaches - Recognizing Migraine Headaches - The Physical Exam
- Other Free Encyclopedias
Medicine EncyclopediaMigraines and Other HeadachesMigraines and Other Headaches - Recognizing Migraine Headaches - Who Can Help?, The Doctor Takes The History, The Physical Exam, Other Diagnostic Tools - Draw A Picture Of Your Headache, Honesty Is The Best Policy