Chronic Headache

Symptom

chronic headache

Considerations

• In the setting of chronic headache without new features and normal neurologic exam may need no immediate imaging (Image Wisely). If clinical concern, MRI is much more sensitive and specific than CT.
• In the acute setting CT head is most important in initial imaging. It detects acute bleed, sinus disease and fractures quickly.

Recommended tests

• MRI brain without contrast
• MRI brain with contrast
• CT brain with IV contrast
• CT brain without IV contrast

For other considerations, call or text the radiologist.