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Brain imaging
Your doctor will likely recommend brain imaging.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An 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 your brain.
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Computerized tomography (CT). In some cases, especially if your headache occurred less than 48 to 72 hours beforehand, a CT scan of your brain may be done.
CT uses an X-ray unit that rotates around your body and a computer to create cross-sectional images of your brain and head.
- Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and computerized tomography (CT) angiography. These tests visualize the blood vessels leading to and inside your brain and neck.
Computerized tomography (CT). In some cases, especially if your headache occurred less than 48 to 72 hours beforehand, a CT scan of your brain may be done.
CT uses an X-ray unit that rotates around your body and a computer to create cross-sectional images of your brain and head.
Angiograms
Your doctor 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 your neck. Contrast material is injected into the tube to allow an X-ray machine to create an image of the arteries in your 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 doctor removes a small amount of the fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. The fluid sample can show if there's bleeding or infection.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com