ICD-10 Code G44.321 – Chronic post-traumatic headache, intractable (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G44.321 – Chronic post-traumatic headache, intractable
What it is
This code identifies a headache that begins after a head injury and continues over time. “Intractable” means the headache is difficult to control or does not respond well to usual management.
Clinical signs
Common documentation includes persistent head pain after trauma, often with a history of concussion or other head injury. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for chronicity, severity, and the intractable nature of the headache.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly links the headache to prior trauma and describes it as chronic and intractable. You should see evidence that the condition is ongoing rather than an acute post-injury headache. If the provider does not specify intractable, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for an acute post-traumatic headache, or for headaches without documented trauma. If the chart does not support chronicity or intractability, choose a different code or check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify that both “chronic” and “intractable” are documented before coding G44.321.