When Should You See a Neurologist for Migraine or Headache? |
Posted: November 22, 2023 |
Headaches are quite common. Almost everyone has them from time to time, and others have them on a daily basis. So, when should you see a neurologist for a headache or migraine? When Does a Headache Become an Emergency?If you have any of the following symptoms besides a headache, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. These symptoms could indicate a stroke or another potentially fatal condition. - The worst headache you've ever had; When Should You Consult With a Neurologist About a Migraine?If you have severe headaches or other symptoms that are interfering with your life, you should consult with a neurologist. Consider seeing a neurologist if you have any of the following symptoms: - Your headache has lasted more than a day or two; Headache Tests That Your Doctor May Recommend YouWhen you visit a neurologist for a headache, he or she will most likely take a medical history, do a physical exam, and administer some neurological tests. Depending on your symptoms, the following tests may be performed. CT scanYour doctor may request a CT scan of your head to diagnose any structural issues, bleeding, spinal issues, or tumors that may be causing your headaches. MRIIf you have had a recent head injury that may be causing your headaches, or if your doctor suspects a structural problem or tumor, an MRI may be performed. EEGEEG stands for electroencephalogram, and it is a test that measures brain waves. It measures brain activity using electrodes put on the scalp. It aids in the diagnosis of epilepsy as well as other brain problems such as stroke, inflammation, brain damage from a head injury, sleep difficulties, and brain malfunction. Eye examsA neurologist may do eye exams to look for symptoms of a concussion or neurological damage that may be causing your headaches. A spinal tapA spinal tap is often referred to as a lumbar puncture or a CSF test. During this examination, clinicians take a small sample of spinal fluid to evaluate its color, consistency, and quality. This test can assist clinicians in determining the location of an infection or tumor if the patient has a disease such as Guillain-Barré syndrome. Sinus x-raysIf your doctor feels you have a sinus infection or that chronic sinus problems are causing your headaches, they may request sinus X-rays. If sinus problems cause your headache, you should see an ENT, often known as an otolaryngologist. Some migraines might produce ear ringing or sinus pressure. A kind of migraine known as vestibular migraine can cause dizziness. This type of vertigo can be caused by inner ear issues. Lab testingDepending on the severity of your headaches and other symptoms, your doctor may prescribe blood tests or a urinalysis. These tests are typically performed to confirm or rule out health issues such as thyroid disease or diabetes that may be contributing to your headaches. While your doctor may be able to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your headaches, a neurologist has the tools and tests to do so.
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