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Headache

Diagnosis & Tests

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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