Exams and Tests

Most tension-type headaches are diagnosed based on a complete and comprehensive history and physical examination. No further diagnostic studies are needed for people who have normal neurological examination findings and are otherwise healthy.

In contrast, people with chronic tension-type headache, regardless of whether they have normal neurological examination findings, should have a CT scan and MRI. Although this sophisticated imaging does not diagnose a specific type of headache syndrome, it may prove invaluable in excluding other causes of the headaches. Thyroid function studies, complete blood cell count, and metabolic screening should also be performed.