Headache (R51) ICD-10-CM
The R51 code range covers headache with 3 ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. 2 of them are billable and valid for claim submission in fiscal year 2027, and the category headers group them but cannot themselves be billed.
Type 2 Excludes
A type 2 excludes note represents "Not included here". An excludes2 note indicates that the condition excluded is not part of the condition represented by the code, but a patient may have both conditions at the same time. When an Excludes2 note appears under a code, it is acceptable to use both the code and the excluded code together, when appropriate.
Codes in the R51 Range 3 codes · 2 billable
Clinical Terms in This Code Range
Definitions from the National Library of Medicine for conditions coded in the R51 range.
Headache
The symptom of PAIN in the cranial region. It may be an isolated benign occurrence or manifestation of a wide variety of HEADACHE DISORDERS.
About the R51 Code Range
A headache is pain in the head. It may occur on its own or as part of a headache disorder.
Within R51, R51.0 describes a headache with an orthostatic component, meaning it relates to upright posture. R51.9 describes a headache without a specified type.
Questions About This Page
How many billable codes are in the R51 range?
Of the 3 codes in this range, 2 are billable and valid for claim submission from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027. Category header codes group them but cannot be reported on claims.
What does the R51 range classify?
The range classifies headache. Each code links to its own reference page with billing status, MS-DRG grouping, coding notes, and clinical information.
Related References
Source: CMS FY 2027 ICD-10-CM Tabular List and order file, effective October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027.
