ICD-10 Code G44.049 – Chronic Paroxysmal Hemicrania, Not Intractable (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G44.049 – Chronic paroxysmal hemicrania, not intractable
What it is
G44.049 identifies chronic paroxysmal hemicrania that is not described as intractable. It is a primary headache disorder with repeated short attacks on one side of the head.
Clinical signs
Typical documentation notes severe unilateral head pain with frequent, brief episodes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for associated autonomic signs such as tearing, redness, or nasal symptoms.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states chronic paroxysmal hemicrania and does not document intractable disease. You may also use it when the provider specifies a chronic pattern of attacks and the condition is not otherwise qualified.
Make sure the diagnosis is established in the chart, not merely suspected. If the note says intractable, or another headache type is documented instead, choose the more specific code supported by the record.
Do not use for
Do not use G44.049 for migraine, cluster headache, or unspecified headache. Also avoid it when documentation says intractable chronic paroxysmal hemicrania, because that requires a different code.
Coding tip
Check the exact headache term and the presence or absence of “intractable” before assigning this code.