Table 9 Classification of tension-type headache [1]

2.1 [G44.2/N95] Infrequent episodic tension-type headache

 A. At least ten episodes occurring <1 day/month on average (<12 days/year) and fulfilling criteria B–D

 B. Headache lasting from 30 min to 7 days

 C. Headache has at least two of the following characteristics:

  1. Bilateral localisation

  2. Pressing/tightening (non-pulsating) quality

  3. Mild or moderate intensity

  4. Not aggravated by routine physical activity such as climbing stairs

 D. Both of the following:

  1. No nausea or vomiting (anorexia may occur)

  2. No more than one of photophobia or phonophobia

 E. Not attributed to another disorder

2.2 [G44.2/N95] Frequent episodic tension-type headache

As 2.1 apart from:

 A. A minimum of ten episodes occurring ≥1 but <15 days/month on average during ≥3 months (≥12 and <180 days/year) and fulfilling criteria B–D

2.3 [G44.2/N95] Chronic tension-type headache

As 2.1 apart from:

 A. Headache occurring on ≥15 days/month on average for >3 months (≥180 days/year) and fulfilling criteria B–D

 B. Headache lasts hours or may be continuous

 D. Both of the following:

  1. No more than one of photophobia, phonophobia or mild nausea

  2. Neither moderate/severe nausea nor vomiting