Headache
How is the condition diagnosed?
The first step in diagnosing the cause of headaches is a complete history and
physical examination. The healthcare provider may then order tests, including:
a cranial CT scan, or examination
of the head with a special three-dimensional X-ray
a cranial MRI, which is a special
three-dimensional image made using a magnetic field
an electroencephalogram or
EEG, which is a recording of brain waves
skull X-rays
a spinal tap, which involves
removing a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid with a thin needle
an electromyogram or EMG. This
test is a recording of the electrical activity of selected muscle groups.
biopsy of the arteries in the
head. This test involves collecting a piece of the artery and examining it
under the microscope.
testing of levels of certain drugs or toxins in the blood
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