brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Migraines
Diagnosis of Migraine
A doctor's evaluation Sometimes computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging Doctors diagnose migraines when symptoms are typical and results of a physical examination (which includes a Neurologic Examination ) are normal. No test or procedure can confirm the diagnosis. Certain findings are warning signs that suggest that the headaches may be caused by a serious disorder. These findings include the following: A sudden headache that becomes most severe within a few seconds or less (thunderclap headache) Headaches that begin after age 50 Headaches that increase in intensity or frequency for weeks or longer Headaches that occur in people who have had cancer or have a weakened immune system (due to a disorder or medication) A severe headache accompanied by a fever, a stiff neck, and/or confusion Persistent problems that suggest a brain disorder, such abnormalities in sensation or vision, weakness, loss of coordination, and drowsiness or confusion A clear change in the established headache pattern If headaches have developed recently or if certain warning signs are present, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head is often done, and a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) is sometimes done to exclude other disorders. If people who are known to have migraines develop a headache that is similar to their previous migraines, doctors rarely do tests. However, if the headache is different, particularly if warning signs are present, a doctor's examination and often tests are needed. 