What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Headache due to Epileptic Seizure

What is Headache Attributed to Epileptic Seizure? (Definition/Background Information)

• Headache Attributed to Epileptic Seizure is a headache disorder that occurs secondary to an epileptic seizure
• Epilepsy is a temporary disruption of brain function due to an abnormally excessive discharge of nerve cells (neurons). The clinical manifestation of epilepsy or a seizure, depends on the specific region and extent of brain involvement
• The headache may develop during or immediately after the epileptic seizure. It is also known to spontaneously remit in a few hours, or sometimes, after a few days (maximum three days)
• The following two subtypes of Headache Attributed to Epileptic Seizure are described:
  • Ictal Epileptic Headache
  • Post-Ictal Headache

The criteria for diagnosis of Headache Attributed to Epileptic Seizure as outlined by the International Headache Society (IHS) is given below:

• The patient is having or has recently had an epileptic seizure
• Any headache fulfilling the criterion below
• Evidence of causation demonstrated by both of the following:
  • Headache has developed simultaneously with or soon after onset of the seizure
  • Headache has resolved spontaneously after the seizure has terminated
• Not better accounted for by another ICHD-3 diagnosis

(Source: International Headache Society Classification ICHD-3, London, United Kingdom)