Overview
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 to 72 hours beforehand, a computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain may be done.
CT uses an X-ray unit that rotates around the body and a computer to create cross-sectional images of the brain and head.
- Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and computerized tomography (CT) angiography. These tests visualize the blood vessels leading to and inside the brain and neck.
Angiograms
Your provider may also order a cerebral angiogram, a test that can show the neck and brain arteries.
This procedure involves threading a thin, flexible tube through a blood vessel, usually starting in the groin, to an artery in the neck. Contrast material is injected into the tube to allow an X-ray machine to create an image of the arteries in the neck and brain.
Spinal tap
Sometimes a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) is needed as well — especially if the headache started abruptly and very recently and brain imaging is normal.
With this procedure, the provider removes a small amount of the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. The fluid sample can show if there’s bleeding or an infection.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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