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What tests are done for people with migraine headaches?

Most migraineurs have normal examination findings. The diagnosis of migraine headache is made solely on the symptoms a migraineur describes to the doctor.

Other possible causes of headache include stroke, tension, meningitis (infection of the brain's coverings), or sinus infections. The following tests and images may be performed or taken if the doctor thinks a person's headaches are being caused by something other than migraines:

• Blood tests
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• X-rays films
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• CT scans of the head to look for bleeding, stroke, or tumor
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• A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to look for evidence of infection or bleeding