The following tests are commonly used to try to determine the cause of a thunderclap headache. CT scan of the head. CT scans take X-rays that create slice-like, cross-sectional images of your brain and head. A computer combines these images to create a full picture of your brain. Sometimes an iodine-based dye is used to augment the picture. Spinal tap (lumbar puncture). The doctor …

Healthcare providers may ask about your medical history and symptoms, including questions like: How often do you have symptoms? Do your symptoms feel worse at certain times of the day? Do your symptoms feel worse after doing certain activities? Do over-the-counter pain relievers help you feel better? They may do computed tomography (CT) scans and brain magnetic resonance imaging (brain …

A healthcare provider diagnoses a spinal headache based on your history and symptoms. If you’ve had a spinal tap in the last 14 days, the diagnosis is often obvious. In that case, you usually don’t need tests. If you haven’t had a spinal tap, providers typically use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose the source of the headache. This imaging test allows …

Your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. If your symptoms are severe or ongoing, you may also need imaging tests like X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans. Imaging tests show if your sinuses are blocked. If they aren’t, it may mean you have a different issue like a migraine or a tension headache. Migraine headaches and sinus headaches have common …

Your provider will likely recommend brain imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain can help detect any underlying causes for your headache. During the MRI exam, a magnetic field and radio waves are used to create cross-sectional images of the structures within the brain. Computerized tomography (CT). In some cases, especially if your headache occurred less than 48 …

If you have migraines or a family history of migraines, a specialist trained in treating headaches, known as a neurologist, will likely diagnose migraines based on your medical history, symptoms, and a physical and neurological examination. If your condition is unusual, complex or suddenly becomes severe, tests to rule out other causes for your pain might include: An MRI scan. A magnetic resonance …

A diagnosis of head lice is made by visual inspection. If you look closely at your child’s hair on their scalp, you may be able to see the tiny white nits attached to the hair shafts. Nits resemble dandruff but aren’t as easy to brush or shake off the hair. Adult lice can move around quickly and are difficult to …

Diagnosis usually begins with a physical exam. During the exam, your provider will check your mouth, nasal cavities, throat and neck. They may feel your neck, lips, gums and cheeks for lumps. Based on your provider’s findings, you’ll likely need tests, which may include: An endoscopy: This procedure uses a thin, lighted tube that allows your provider to see inside your nasal …

A healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms and physically examine you. They might ask about your health history, any history of liver disease in your family or other factors that might make you more susceptible to viral hepatitis. As you might not have symptoms or any known risk factors, the only way to find out for sure if …

Your healthcare provider will do a physical exam. They’ll also ask about your medical history, symptoms and lifestyle. Tests to help confirm a diagnosis include: Blood tests: Your provider may check your blood for signs of HCC, like high alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. Elevated AFP may signal HCC or a condition that can lead to HCC, like a hepatitis infection or cirrhosis of the …