MRI for Migraines: What It Reveals and When It's Needed

Migraines are painful, chronic headaches that can cause pain for hours on end. Constant headaches can be a source of worry, and if they persist, your doctor may recommend an MRI to rule out serious diseases.

Migraines

• According to the Mayo Clinic, some migraines can be so severe that you may not be able to do anything else but lay down. Though the cause of migraines is not known, doctors believe they can be triggered by genetic or environmental causes.

MRI

• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is an exam that uses both radio waves and magnetic fields to make highly detailed images of the body. When people have migraines, an MRI gives the doctor a good picture of the brain to help with a diagnosis.

Normal Results?

• According to WebMD, an MRI will reveal a normal brain image in people with migraines.

Benefits

• The MRI can be used to rule out serious diseases such as brain cancer, injuries, stroke or infections.

Prevention/Solution

• While migraines cannot be prevented entirely, there are medications and lifestyle changes that can seriously cut down the risks of them reoccurring.