Table 1 The international classification of headache disorders, 3rd edition [9]

10.2 The diagnostic criteria of headache during dialysis

Headache with no specific characteristics occurring during and caused by hemodialysis. It resolves spontaneously within 72 hours after the hemodialysis session has ended.

 A. At least three episodes of acute headache fulfilling criterion C

 B. The patient is undergoing hemodialysis

 C. Evidence of causation demonstrated by at least two of the following:

  1. each headache has developed during a session of hemodialysis

  2. either or both of the following:

   a) each headache has worsened during the dialysis session

   b) each headache has resolved within 72 hours after the end of the dialysis session

  3. headache episodes cease altogether after successful kidney transplantation and termination of hemodialysis

 D. Not better accounted for by another ICHD-3 diagnosis.

Caffeine is rapidly removed by dialysis: 8.3.1 Caffeine-withdrawal headache should be considered in patients who consume large quantities of caffeine.