Cluster Headache Identification
Your physician will inquire about your symptoms and medical history if you suffer from cluster migraines. In addition, he or she will conduct a physical examination to search for other potential causes of your pain. There is no specific diagnostic test available for cluster migraines. Your physician will likely diagnose you based on your symptoms and medical history. (6)
The diagnosis of cluster migraines requires a neurological examination. This examination includes a variety of tests to determine whether a person has cluster migraines and the severity of the condition. A physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests, and nerve testing are some of the possible diagnostic procedures.
Physical checkup
A physical examination is often the initial and most important stage in diagnosing cluster headaches. In addition to a physical examination, your medical history and symptoms may be reviewed during the exam. The physician will search for indications of a neurological disorder. Additionally, he or she will examine the irises and neck for any anomalies.
Blood exams
Blood investigations can aid in the diagnosis of cluster headaches. These procedures can help determine whether cluster headaches are caused by an underlying medical condition. A complete blood count (CBC), a liver function test, and a thyroid function test may be administered.
Complete blood count – A complete blood count is a frequently used diagnostic tool for cluster migraines. It may be prescribed if you exhibit symptoms consistent with cluster headache, such as sudden onset of severe pain on one side of the head, vision changes, or profuse perspiration.
Test of liver function – A test of liver function measures the enzymes and proteins produced by the liver. If these levels are abnormal, it may indicate that the individual is suffering from a liver disorder. This information could then be used to ascertain the cluster headaches’ underlying cause.
Test of thyroid function – A thyroid function test may be suggested to aid in the diagnosis of cluster migraines. It analyses the concentration of thyroid hormones in the blood. Possible association between cluster migraines and abnormal thyroid hormone levels.
Imaging studies
Several imaging procedures can be used to aid in the diagnosis of cluster headaches. A CT scan or MRI can assist in ruling out other potential causes of the symptoms, such as a tumour or aneurysm. A PET scan can also be used to detect brain alterations that may be related to cluster headaches.
CT scan – If you’re experiencing severe, recurrent headaches and have tried other treatments without success, you may want to consult your doctor about a CT scan to diagnose cluster headaches. The primary benefit of using a CT scan to diagnose cluster migraines is that it can help rule out the possibility that your symptoms are caused by another condition. A CT scan can help determine whether you have a tumour or an aneurysm, for instance.
Researchers believe they have discovered a method for diagnosing cluster migraines using MRI scans. In a review, MRI scans were used to examine the brains of individuals with and without cluster migraines. The scans revealed that individuals with cluster migraines had altered brain regions. The findings could aid physicians in more accurately diagnosing cluster headaches and lead to novel treatments for the condition.
PET scan – A PET scan may aid to rule out other headache causes and confirm a cluster headache diagnosis. A PET scan utilises a radioactive dye to produce images of the body’s interior. This test can help identify brain abnormalities that may be responsible for cluster migraines.
Stress testing
Nerve testing may be utilised to aid in the diagnosis of cluster migraines. This form of examination measures the nerves’ electrical activity. It can help determine if a problem with nerve function is responsible for the cluster migraines.
