2025 ICD-10-CM code G44.2
(Valid) Effective Date: N/A Diseases of the nervous system - Tension-type headache 6 Feed
Tension-type headache.
Medical necessity for evaluation and treatment of tension-type headaches is established by the impact of the headaches on the patient's daily activities and quality of life.Chronic or frequent headaches may warrant further investigation to rule out other underlying conditions and to determine appropriate management strategies.
Diagnosis of tension-type headaches is based on clinical evaluation, patient history (including headache characteristics, frequency, and duration), and physical examination. Ruling out other potential causes of headache through imaging or other tests may be necessary.
In simple words: A tension headache feels like a tight band around your head.It's usually mild to moderate pain and doesn't involve nausea or other migraine symptoms.
Tension-type headaches are characterized by mild to moderate pain, often described as a tight band or pressure around the head.They can be episodic (less than 15 days per month) or chronic (15 or more days per month).Unlike migraines, they are typically not accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light, sound, or physical activity.
Example 1: A 30-year-old patient presents with a bilateral, dull, aching head pain described as a tight band around the head.The pain has been present for several hours and is mild in intensity.There is no nausea, vomiting, or aura.The patient reports stress at work as a potential trigger., A 50-year-old patient experiences near-daily headaches for the past six months.The headaches are described as a constant pressure or tightness around the head, typically mild to moderate in intensity.The patient denies any nausea, vomiting, or neurological symptoms., A 25-year-old patient reports episodic headaches occurring a few times a month. The headaches are characterized by a pressing or tightening quality, usually lasting for a few hours. The patient reports increased stress levels and neck pain around the time of the headaches. Over-the-counter pain relievers provide some relief.
Documentation should include:* Detailed description of the headache characteristics (location, quality, intensity, duration).* Frequency and timing of headaches.* Presence or absence of associated symptoms (nausea, vomiting, aura, sensitivity to light/sound).* Potential triggers (stress, fatigue, posture).* Response to treatment.* Physical examination findings (tenderness in neck or scalp muscles).
- Specialties:Neurology, Primary Care, Pain Management
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Telehealth Provided in Patient’s Home, Telehealth Provided Other than in Patient’s Home