G43.709 Chronic migraine without aura, not intractable, without status migrainosus

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Chronic Migraine without Aura, Not Intractable; G43.709

#### Summary
Chronic migraine without aura is a type of headache disorder characterized by frequent migraine attacks that lack the preliminary visual or sensory disturbances known as "aura." This condition is termed "not intractable," meaning it generally responds well to treatment and does not involve status migrainosus—a prolonged and severe migraine.

#### Causes
The exact causes of chronic migraine without aura remain unclear, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Neurobiological changes in the brain may also play a role.

#### Risk Factors
- Family history of migraines
- Female gender, as hormonal changes can influence migraines
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Overuse of headache medications

#### Symptoms
- Headaches occurring at least 15 days per month, with migraine features on 8 or more of those days
- Throbbing or pulsating pain, typically on one side of the head
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
- Nausea or vomiting

#### Diagnosis
Diagnosis is primarily clinical based on the patient's history and symptomatology. Healthcare providers may use headache diaries or questionnaires to track frequency and characteristics. Neurological exams will be conducted to rule out other causes.

#### Treatment Options
- **Medications**: Triptans for acute attacks; preventive medications like beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants.
- **Therapies**: Cognitive-behavioral therapy or relaxation techniques.
- **Lifestyle Changes**: Stress management and regular sleep patterns.

Each treatment aims to reduce frequency, severity, and duration of migraines and improve quality of life.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
With effective management, many patients experience a reduction in migraine frequency and intensity. Regular follow-ups are necessary for monitoring medication side effects and adjusting treatment plans.

#### Complications
If left untreated, chronic migraines can lead to overuse of pain medications and an increased risk of developing medication-overuse headaches.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Avoid known migraine triggers such as specific foods or stress
- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- When headaches occur suddenly and severely
- Chronic pattern worsens or doesn't respond to usual medications
- Accompanied by neurological symptoms like confusion or visual changes

#### Additional Resources
- American Migraine Foundation: [migraineresearchfoundation.org](https://migraineresearchfoundation.org)
- National Headache Foundation: [headaches.org](https://headaches.org)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure specificity by confirming "without aura" and "not intractable" in documentation.
- Avoid coding errors by distinguishing this from similar migraine types with aura or status migrainosus.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Chronic migraine without aura, not intractable, without status migrainosus

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