When you need them—and when you don’t

CT and MRI examinations are called imaging tests because they take pictures, or images, of the inside of the body. Many people who have headaches want a CT scan or an MRI to find out if their headaches are caused by a serious problem, such as a brain tumor. Most of the time these tests are not needed.

When should you have an imaging test for headaches?

In some cases you might need a CT scan or an MRI. You might need one if your doctor cannot diagnose your headache based on your neurological exam and medical history. Or you might need one if the exam finds something that is not normal.

You may also need a CT scan or an MRI if you have unusual headaches. See your doctor right away if:

• You suddenly develop a very severe headache which feels like something is bursting inside your head.
• Your headaches are different from other headaches you’ve had, especially if you are age 50 or older.
• Your headaches happen after you have been physically active.
• You have headaches with other serious symptoms, such as a loss of control, a seizure or fit, or a change in speech or alertness.

Conditions: Headache, Neurologic Deficit

Diagnostic Tests: Head or Brain Imaging, X-Ray, Computed Tomography (CT Scanning), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)