When should I get an MRI for headaches?

MRI is recommended for new headaches after age 50, headaches that have changed in pattern, headaches with neurological symptoms (weakness, vision changes), or headaches that dont respond to treatment. Most migraines and tension headaches dont need imaging.

How much does a brain MRI cost in Illinois?

Brain MRI costs $450-$2,340 depending on the facility. Freestanding imaging centers typically charge 40-60% less than hospital-based imaging for the same quality scan.

Can a CT scan detect migraines?

No, migraines are diagnosed based on symptoms, not imaging. CT scans are normal in migraine patients. CT is used to rule out other causes (bleeding, tumor) when headache patterns are concerning.

Headache Tests & Costs 2025 | Brain MRI, CT Prices

Seek Emergency Care If You Have:

Worst headache of your life (thunderclap)
Sudden severe headache reaching maximum intensity in seconds
Headache with fever and stiff neck
Headache with confusion, weakness, or vision changes
Headache after head trauma
New headache in someone with cancer or HIV

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Common Causes

Headache can have many causes, ranging from minor to serious:

Tension headache (most common)

Migraine

Cluster headache

Medication overuse headache

Sinus headache

Caffeine withdrawal

Rarely: brain tumor, aneurysm, or other structural cause

Diagnostic Tests for Headache

Brain MRI

Detailed images of brain tissue, blood vessels, and structures

$450 - $2,340

When used: Persistent headaches, new headaches after 50, or concerning symptoms

Head CT Scan

Quick imaging to rule out bleeding, stroke, or mass

$350 - $1,800

When used: Emergency evaluation of sudden severe headache or trauma

MRA (MR Angiography)

MRI of brain blood vessels to detect aneurysms

$600 - $3,000

When used: Family history of aneurysm or thunderclap headache with normal CT

Lumbar Puncture

Analyzes spinal fluid for infection or bleeding

$500 - $2,500

When used: Fever with headache, or to rule out subarachnoid hemorrhage

Prices shown are typical ranges for Illinois facilities. Click any test to compare actual prices.

When to See a Doctor

See a doctor if headaches are new or changed pattern, occur more than 15 days per month, or dont respond to OTC medications. Seek emergency care for thunderclap headache (worst ever), headache with fever and stiff neck, or headache with confusion or weakness.

What to Expect

Primary headaches (migraine, tension) are diagnosed based on symptoms and dont need imaging. Imaging (CT or MRI) is ordered for concerning features, new headaches after age 50, or symptoms suggesting structural problems. MRI is preferred for non-emergency evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Headache Diagnosis: Tests & Costs in Illinois