How to Test for Migraines

Migraines, a type of headache, cause moderate to severe pain, usually on one side of the head. Nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and a tender scalp also may occur. Migraines are difficult to diagnose because they affect everyone differently and produce symptoms common to other types of headaches. There is no specific test to confirm a migraine diagnosis, but testing can rule out disorders that may cause migraine-like symptoms. Without a proper diagnosis, effective treatment of migraines cannot begin.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor for a complete evaluation. Your doctor will ask you questions about your headaches, such as how often they occur, what symptoms you experience and where in your head the pain is located.

• 2

  Have a sample of your blood drawn to check for various vitamin and mineral deficiencies that may cause or contribute to your headaches. For example, a magnesium deficiency can cause migraine-like symptoms in some people. Also, a sedimentation rate test can check for inflammation that may contribute to your head pain.

• 3

  Undergo a computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of your brain to rule out bleeding and tumors. This is especially important if your headaches are new or if you experience a change in, or sudden worsening of, your symptoms.

• 4

  Agree to a lumbar puncture to rule out meningitis if this is your first severe headache. Migraines can cause sensitivity to light and other symptoms similar to those caused by meningitis. Without treatment, bacterial meningitis is potentially fatal.

• 5

  Have an electroencephalography (EEG) done to check for abnormal brain waves that may indicate a seizure disorder. Some migraine sufferers experience an "aura" prior to the onset of head pain, and this symptom may be confused with symptoms of a seizure. A migraine aura may include seeing wavy lines, spots or flashing lights, experiencing numbness or tingling in the hands or face and unusual emotional symptoms.