Tests and diagnosis
By Mayo Clinic staffYour doctor may recommend brain-imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). During an MRI, a magnetic field and radio waves are used to create cross-sectional images of the structures within your head to determine any problems that may be causing your cough headache.
- Computerized tomography (CT). These scans use a computer to create cross-sectional images of your brain and head by combining images from an X-ray unit that rotates around your body.
References
- Cutrer FM. Primary cough headache. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 5, 2009.
- Pasqual J. Other primary headaches. Neurologic Clinics. 2009;27:557.
- Chiari malformation fact sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/chiari/detail_chiari.htm. Accessed Dec. 6, 2009.
- Headache: Hope through research. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/headache/detail_headache.htm#142883138. Accessed Dec. 7, 2009.
- Bartleson JD (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Dec. 30, 2009.

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