Migraine Headache Diagnosis

Some people may be diagnosed and treated at a headache center. Their healthcare team may include some of the following migraine specialists:

• Behavioral therapist
• Biofeedback therapist
• Neurologist
• Nurse practitioner or nurse
• Nutritionist
• Orofacial pain specialist
• Pediatric neurologist
• Physician
• Psychologist
• Physical therapist

There isn't a single test to diagnose migraine headaches. A doctor makes the diagnosis based on a person's:

• Symptoms
• Family history of migraines
• Response to treatment

The physical exam sometimes includes the following tests to rule out other types of headaches:

• CT scan
  A brain CT scan (computed tomography scan) uses X-rays to produce cross-sectional computerized images of the head. The CT scan helps identify possible medical conditions (such as a sinus infection, brain abscess, trauma, or tumor). CT scans are also called CAT scan or computerized axial tomography scans.
• MRI
  Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves, a magnetic field, and a computer to create images of the brain. An MRI produces superior images of the brain than a CT scan and also helps rule out possible medical conditions (such as meningitis or stroke).
• EEG
  An electroencephalogram (EEG) measures the electrical activity of the brain (brain waves) using highly sensitive recording equipment attached to the scalp by fine electrodes. An EEG helps detect abnormalities in the electrical activity of the brain (such as encephalitis or epilepsy).
• Lumbar puncture
  On rare occasions, a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) may be used to detect bleeding (such as cerebral hemorrhage or aneurysm), infection (such as a cerebral abscess), or inflammation in the brain (such as encephalitis or meningitis).
• Vision tests
  Vision tests help diagnose headaches due to vision problems (such as eye strain or glaucoma).
• Blood tests
  Some headaches caused by medical conditions (such as anemia or thyroid disease) can be diagnosed by blood tests.