Headache Syndromes ICD-10-CM codes

Headache with no documented type is R51.9 (headache, unspecified). R51.0 is headache with an orthostatic component, such as post-dural puncture or low-pressure headache. The G44 category holds the named headache syndromes other than migraine; migraine is category G43 (G43.909 is unspecified migraine).

Tension-type headache is G44.2- with a fifth character for unspecified (0), episodic (1), or chronic (2), and a sixth character for intractable (1) or not intractable (9). G44.209 (tension-type headache, unspecified, not intractable) is the most common assignment. Chronic tension-type headache means 15 or more days per month for at least three months as documented by the provider.

Cluster headache and other trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias are G44.0-: G44.009 unspecified cluster not intractable, G44.01- episodic, G44.02- chronic, with paroxysmal hemicrania and SUNCT in G44.03- through G44.05-. Post-traumatic headache is G44.3- (acute G44.31-, chronic G44.32-), and the head injury (for example S06.0X0A for concussion) is coded in addition. Medication overuse headache is G44.40 or G44.41 (drug-induced), with a T code for the drug.

Cervicogenic headache is G44.86 and does not need an additional cervical spine code unless a specific disorder is documented. Intractable follows the same definition as in the migraine and epilepsy categories: the provider must document intractable, refractory, treatment resistant, or poorly controlled.