Occipital neuralgia

This code represents a specific type of headache characterized by chronic pain originating in the occipital region, typically due to irritation or injury of the occipital nerves. Patients often experience paroxysmal, shooting, or throbbing pain that radiates from the back of the head towards the scalp, sometimes accompanied by tenderness or numbness.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of occipital neuralgia, often presenting with pain in the distribution of the greater or lesser occipital nerves. This diagnosis is typically supported by a physical examination revealing tenderness over the occipital nerve and a positive response to nerve blocks.

• Differentiate from other headache types like tension headaches or migraines, which have distinct diagnostic criteria.
• Ensure documentation specifies "occipital neuralgia" rather than general neck or head pain.
• Consider laterality if specified in the clinical notes (e.g., right, left, bilateral), though this code does not allow for laterality specificity.