To rule out serious medical causes of migraine, it is sometimes necessary to consult a neurologist.
A migraine is an episodic headache that usually lasts between four hours and three days, and frequently induces nausea or vomiting. In many cases, primary care physicians will refer migraine sufferers to a neurologist for assistance in diagnosis and treatment.
Description
A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in caring for the central nervous system. She frequently treats conditions like stroke, headache, dementia and multiple sclerosis.
When to Go
Though primary care physicians often handles patient with migraines, they frequently refer patients to a neurologist to rule out serious causes (like a tumor). The PCP will also refer patients whose symptoms throw up "red flags," like atypical aura, complicated migraine (like hemiplegic or basilar), unclear diagnosis or complications with other medical conditions (like heart disease).
Finding a Neurologist
Besides asking your primary care physician for a recommendation, you should consult friends and family, as well as online directories where patients can review and rate specialists. You should also look into a neurologist's credentials before undergoing any tests or treatment.
CT/CAT Scan
Neurologists often order a CT/CAT (or computerized axial tomography) scan, in order to get a detailed image of your brain. This test evaluates for brain disorders including tumor, stroke, injury and acute hemorrhage.
MRI
An MRI (or magnetic resonance imaging) is a painless test used to produce a detailed brain image. It can reveal conditions including stroke, hemorrhage, injury, malignant disease, sinus problems and tumor. Because this test requires you to lay inside an enclosed tunnel, patients with claustrophobia may require a mild sedative before the procedure.
Tags: primary care, care physicians, conditions like, primary care physicians, refer patients