Headaches and Migraines in NYC: Same-Day Testing and When to See a Doctor in Manhattan
At 14 Street Medical in Manhattan, New York, many patients with headaches or migraines can receive same-day diagnostic testing, when clinically appropriate. Early evaluation helps identify serious conditions and guide the right treatment quickly.
Same-Day Headache & Migraine Testing in NYC
Depending on your symptoms, same-day testing may include:
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MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Detailed imaging of the brain and soft tissues to evaluate migraines, neurologic symptoms, or structural abnormalities. -
MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography)
Specialized imaging that evaluates blood vessels in the brain and neck. -
CT Scan (Computed Tomography)
Fast imaging often used for sudden, severe headaches or suspected bleeding. -
X-ray
Used in select cases to evaluate sinus or structural causes of headaches. -
EEG (Electroencephalogram)
Measures brain electrical activity and may be used when seizures or abnormal neurologic activity are suspected. -
Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
Evaluates blood flow in the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain. -
Transcranial Doppler
Measures blood flow within the brain’s blood vessels and helps assess circulation.
Testing availability depends on clinical evaluation and medical necessity.
Headache vs. Migraine: What’s the Difference?
Headaches
Common headaches are often described as:
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Pressure or tightness around the head
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A dull, aching pain on both sides of the head
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Pain related to stress, poor sleep, dehydration, or eye strain
These headaches are often tension-related and may improve with rest or treatment.
Migraines
Migraines are a neurologic condition, not just a bad headache. Symptoms may include:
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Moderate to severe throbbing pain, often on one side of the head
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Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
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Nausea or vomiting
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Visual changes (aura)
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Pain that worsens with movement
Migraines can last hours to days and significantly impact daily life.
When Is a Headache Concerning?
Seek urgent medical care if a headache:
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Is sudden and severe (“worst headache of your life”)
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Is new or very different from previous headaches
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Occurs with fever, stiff neck, confusion, weakness, or vision changes
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Follows a head injury
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Worsens over time or does not respond to treatment
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Occurs with high blood pressure
If you are unsure, it’s always safer to get evaluated.
Headache and Migraine Care in Manhattan at 14 Street Medical
Our Manhattan medical team provides:
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Same-day headache and migraine evaluation
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Advanced imaging and neurologic testing when needed
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Migraine treatment and prevention plans
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Management of chronic and recurrent headaches
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Preventive primary care for patients across New York City
We focus on identifying the cause — not just treating the pain.
14 Street Medical Locations in Manhattan, NYC
East Village
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332 East 14 Street, New York, NY 10003
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500 East 14 Street, New York, NY 10009
Union Square / Chelsea
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110 West 14 Street, New York, NY 10011
Upper West Side
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912 Columbus Avenue, New York, NY 10025
Insurances Accepted
1199 SEIU, Aetna, Affinity Health Plan, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, EmblemHealth, Fidelis Care, Healthfirst, Humana, MagnaCare, Medicaid, Medicare, Molina Healthcare, UnitedHealthcare, and WellCare.





