Primary cough headache
ICD-10 G44.83 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of primary cough headache.
Primary cough headache is a rare type of headache that occurs in response to coughing or other forms of Valsalva maneuvers, such as sneezing or straining. It is characterized by a sudden, sharp pain that typically lasts for a few seconds to a couple of minutes. The headache is usually bilateral and can be described as a brief, intense pain that may be mistaken for other headache disorders, such as migraines or tension-type headaches. The exact pathophysiology is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve increased intracranial pressure or irritation of the cranial nerves during the act of coughing. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the patient's history and the specific triggers associated with the headaches. It is essential to differentiate primary cough headache from secondary causes of headache, such as intracranial lesions or vascular disorders, which may require further investigation. Treatment options are limited, but preventive measures may include lifestyle modifications and, in some cases, medications such as indomethacin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Detailed patient history, including headache triggers and duration, neurological examination findings, and response to treatments.
Patients presenting with sudden onset headaches during coughing or sneezing, requiring differentiation from other headache types.
Ensure thorough documentation to support the diagnosis and rule out secondary causes.
Comprehensive history and physical examination, including cough history and headache characteristics.
Patients with recurrent headaches associated with coughing, often requiring referral to a specialist.
Documenting the frequency and severity of headaches to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.
Used for follow-up visits to assess headache management.
Document the patient's headache history, response to treatment, and any changes in symptoms.
Neurologists may require more detailed neurological assessments.
Primary cough headache is a rare headache disorder triggered by coughing, characterized by brief, intense pain.
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the patient's history of headaches triggered by coughing and the exclusion of secondary causes.
Treatment options are limited but may include lifestyle modifications and medications such as indomethacin.
