A12.8 Headache attributed to generalized anxiety disorderHartmut Gobel2018-01-31T16:34:54+00:00

Diagnostic criteria:

1. Any headache fulfilling criterion C
2. Generalized anxiety disorder has been diagnosed according to DSM-5 criteria
3. Headache occurs exclusively during periods of anxiety
4. Not better accounted for by another ICHD-3 diagnosis.

Comment:

Patients with generalized anxiety disorder present excessive anxiety and worry (apprehensive expectation) about two (or more) domains of activities or events (eg, family, health, finances, school/work difficulties), on more days than not, for 3 months or more. Symptoms may include restlessness or feeling excited, tense or nervous, and muscle tension. Behaviours associated with this disorder include avoidance of activities or events with possible negative outcomes, marked investment of time and effort in preparing for activities or events with possible negative outcomes, marked procrastination in behaviour or decision-making because of worries, and repeatedly seeking reassurance because of worries.