Abuse of vitamins
ICD-10 F55.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of abuse of vitamins.
Abuse of vitamins refers to the excessive and inappropriate consumption of vitamin supplements beyond the recommended dietary allowances. This behavior is often associated with various eating disorders, where individuals may believe that high doses of vitamins can enhance their health, improve body image, or aid in weight loss. Such abuse can lead to toxicities and adverse health effects, including hypervitaminosis, which can cause symptoms ranging from nausea and headaches to more severe complications like liver damage or neurological issues. In some cases, individuals may also experience psychological symptoms, such as anxiety or obsessive behaviors related to their vitamin intake. The condition can intersect with sleep disorders, as excessive vitamin intake, particularly of B vitamins, may disrupt sleep patterns. Additionally, it may be linked to sexual dysfunction, as certain vitamin overdoses can affect hormonal balance. Behavioral syndromes may also manifest, where the individual exhibits compulsive behaviors surrounding vitamin consumption, often as a means of coping with underlying psychological issues. Proper diagnosis and management require a comprehensive understanding of the patient's dietary habits, psychological state, and potential co-occurring disorders.
Detailed patient history including dietary habits, psychological evaluations, and any co-occurring disorders.
Patients presenting with anxiety or obsessive behaviors related to vitamin intake.
Consideration of underlying mental health conditions that may contribute to vitamin abuse.
Comprehensive dietary assessments and documentation of vitamin supplementation.
Patients seeking nutritional advice who exhibit signs of vitamin abuse.
Need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address both nutritional and psychological aspects.
Used when a patient is receiving counseling for dietary habits related to vitamin abuse.
Document the patient's dietary history and the rationale for therapy.
Nutrition specialists should ensure comprehensive assessments are conducted.
Common symptoms include nausea, headaches, fatigue, and in severe cases, organ dysfunction. Psychological symptoms may also manifest, such as anxiety or obsessive behaviors.
