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

• PIH (Post-Ictal Headache)

What is Post-Ictal Headache? (Definition/Background Information)

• Post-Ictal Headache (PIH) 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 develops due to the epileptic seizure typically within 3 hours of seizure termination. A spontaneous remission is also observed within 3 days of epileptic seizure termination
• In a majority of cases, Post-Ictal Headache develops following a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Also, according to studies, in 60% of the cases, the epilepsy involves the occipital lobe of the brain; while, in 40% or more cases, it involves the frontal or temporal lobes

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

• The patient has recently had a partial or generalized epileptic seizure
• Any headache fulfilling the criterion below
• Evidence of causation demonstrated by both of the following:
  • Headache has developed within 3 hours after the epileptic seizure has terminated
  • Headache has resolved within 72 hours after the epileptic seizure has terminated
• Not better accounted for by another ICHD-3 diagnosis

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