R51 – Headache

ICD-10-CM 2027 diagnosis code · General symptoms and signs

Non-billable header

ICD-10-CM code R51
Code
R51 (claims format: R51)
Description
Headache
Billable
No – use a more specific code below
Valid for
Dates of service October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 (FY2027)
Chapter
18. Symptoms, signs and abnormal clinical and laboratory findings, not elsewhere classified (R00-R99)
Block
R50-R69 General symptoms and signs

Billable codes under R51

R51 is a header code and cannot be used on claims. Choose the most specific code:

Notes for R51

Excludes2 (not included here):
  • atypical face pain (G50.1)
  • migraine and other headache syndromes (G43-G44)
  • trigeminal neuralgia (G50.0)

Frequently asked questions

What is ICD-10 code R51?

R51 is the ICD-10-CM code for headache, in the block R50-R69 (General symptoms and signs).

Is R51 a billable code?

No. R51 is a header code with more specific child codes; report one of the billable codes listed above.

Source: CDC/NCHS ICD-10-CM FY2027 code files, tabular list and index. Reference only – code assignment must follow the official ICD-10-CM guidelines and documentation in the medical record.