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

• Ictal Headache
• IEH (Ictal Epileptic Headache)

What is Ictal Epileptic Headache? (Definition/Background Information)

• Ictal Epileptic Headache (IEH) is a headache disorder that occurs secondary to a partial 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 develops due to and during the partial epileptic seizure. It is also known to spontaneously remit immediately after the seizure ends
• In some individuals, Ictal Headaches could be the only manifestation of a seizure. This condition, known as pure or isolated Ictal Epileptic Headache, should be thoroughly investigated to exclude other causes of headache

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

• The patient is having a partial epileptic seizure
• Any headache fulfilling the criterion below

Evidence of causation demonstrated by both of the following:

• Headache has developed simultaneously with onset of the partial seizure
• Either or both of the following:
  • Headache is ipsilateral to the ictal discharge
  • Headache significantly improves or remits immediately after the partial seizure has terminated

Not better accounted for by another ICHD-3 diagnosis.

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

Note: An uncommon subtype of Ictal Epileptic Headache, known as hemicrania epileptica, is recognized by some medical research.