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Tension Headaches - Exams and Tests

Finding out the type of headache you have

A doctor can usually diagnose tension headaches by asking you questions about your health and lifestyle and by examining you.

It can be hard to know which type of headache you have, because different types can have the same symptoms. But the treatments may be different, so it's important to find out which type you have.

Your doctor may diagnose tension headaches if you have:

Constant pain that does not throb or pulse. You usually feel the pain or pressure on both sides of your head.
Tightness around your forehead that may feel like a "vise grip."
Aching pain at your temples or the back of your head and neck.

You might be sensitive to light or noise (not both at the same time), but you probably will not feel nauseated. The pain does not get worse with activity.

You may be diagnosed with chronic tension headaches if you have the same symptoms but have a headache on 15 or more days each month over a 3-month period.

Finding other possible causes

In very rare cases, headaches can be caused by more serious health problems (such as brain tumors or aneurysms). But most headaches aren't caused by anything serious, so you probably won't need to have tests.

Tests you might have

Your doctor will check your symptoms and decide if you need to have tests. The tests may include:

MRI or CT scan. These imaging tests may be used to look for tumors or bleeding in the brain. But most headaches aren't caused by anything serious, so you probably won't need to have imaging tests. For more information, see:
Headaches: Should I Have Imaging Tests to Find Out What's Causing My Headaches?
Lumbar puncture (also called a spinal tap). This may be done if your doctor thinks that you might have a problem such as meningitis or bleeding in the brain.
An electroencephalogram (EEG). It measures and records the electrical activity of your brain by using sensors (electrodes) attached to your head. The sensors are connected by wires to a computer.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 23, 2011

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.