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Brain Tumors/MRI and Migraines

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Expert: - 12/14/2008


Question
Hi,

I went to my family doctor in August 2007 for headaches, was given an MRI w and w/o contrast and came back normal. I was given naproxen and the headaches gradually went away.

Recently the headaches came back and I was sent to neurologist. I get pain only on one side almost every day of the week in the back of my head. He did a series of physical tests, but did not order another MRI. He concluded I have migraines. Is an MRI good for this period of time or should I ask for another one to rule out anything else?

Recently I have experienced some mild confusion and off-balanced feelings, but I am not sure if that is because of my headaches or the topamax I have started to take.  

Any input would be much appreciated.

Thank you.

Answer
Are your present problems so similar to those of 2007 that you so to speak recognize them? You seem to be worried by your symptoms. The only way we have of being SURE that your symptoms are not tumor related is to have another MRI! It may not be strictly medically necessary but it probably is for your peace of mind! Good luck!

Brain Tumors

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Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D.

Expertise

I`m a doctor of medicine and specialist in radiation therapy and medical oncology. I have a long time experience of these tumours.

Experience

I'm a Doctor of Medicine and specialist in Medical Oncology and Radiation Therapy, educated and trained in Sweden. Now retired. Background in Radiation Therapy, Medical Oncology, Radiation Protection, Nuclear Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, Gynecological Oncology, Clinical Pathology, Clinical Cytology,Hematology and Internal Medicine. M.D. from the faculty of medicine, Royal Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. Have also been an exchange student at the Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem Israel. Former medical consultant, Swedish National Board of Radiation Protection. Former Police Surgeon and Medical Examiner, Stockholm Police Department. Former Chief Medical Officer, The Royal Guards, The Royal Horse Guards and the Royal Household Brigade, Royal Swedish Army Medical Corps. You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128 . I have no restrictions on the number of questions there. I also answer questions about Oncology (General Cancer), General History, Military History, Breast Cancer, Colon Cancer.

Education/Credentials
Doctor of medicine, specialist in medical oncology & radiation therapy.

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