Chronic migraine without aura, not intractable
ICD-10 G43.70 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic migraine without aura, not intractable.
Chronic migraine without aura is characterized by the occurrence of headache episodes that meet the criteria for migraine without aura on 15 or more days per month over a period of three months. These headaches can be moderate to severe in intensity and are often unilateral, pulsating, and aggravated by routine physical activity. Patients may experience associated symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and photophobia or phonophobia. Unlike intractable migraines, which are resistant to treatment and significantly impair daily functioning, chronic migraines without aura are manageable with appropriate interventions. The condition can be triggered by various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, dietary factors, sleep disturbances, and environmental stimuli. Effective management often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, preventive medications, and acute treatments to alleviate symptoms during headache episodes.
Detailed headache diaries, treatment history, and response to therapies.
Patients presenting with frequent headaches, requiring evaluation for chronic migraine management.
Neurologists must document the frequency and severity of headaches to support the chronic migraine diagnosis.
Comprehensive patient history, including lifestyle factors and previous treatments.
Patients with recurrent headaches seeking management options.
Primary care providers should assess for comorbid conditions that may exacerbate migraines.
Used for follow-up visits for chronic migraine management.
Document history of present illness, review of systems, and treatment plan.
Neurologists may require more detailed documentation of neurological examinations.
Chronic migraine without aura is defined by the occurrence of headache days on 15 or more days per month for at least three months, while episodic migraine occurs less frequently.
