Diagnosis of Migraine

Migraine is usually diagnosed based on the clinical history and after ruling out other conditions on a complete neurological examination. The following tests may be performed to rule out certain other conditions that may present in the form of a headache.

CT scan (Computerized Tomography Scan): This test is performed to rule out any abnormality in the brain when the same is suspected as a cause of a headache.

EEG (Electro-encephalography): This test involves the monitoring of the activity of the brain by recording the electrical impulses generated in the brain. This test is done to detect any abnormality in the brain activity, such as epileptic activity.

Lumbar Puncture: Evaluation of the spinal fluid to check for any infection may be carried out when infection of the brain is suspected as the cause of a headache.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This test gives a more clear picture of the brain and may be done to rule out any structural abnormality in the brain. MR Angiography is done to visualize the blood vessels of the brain and to detect any abnormality of these.