Acute cough
ICD-10 R05.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute cough.
Acute cough is defined as a sudden onset of coughing that lasts less than three weeks. It can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, including infections, allergies, or irritants. Acute cough is often associated with other symptoms such as fever, sputum production, or wheezing, which can help in determining the underlying cause. Common causes include viral infections like the common cold or influenza, bacterial infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis, and environmental factors like smoke or allergens. The clinical approach to acute cough typically involves a thorough history and physical examination, focusing on the duration, characteristics of the cough, and associated symptoms. Laboratory findings may include sputum analysis or chest X-rays if pneumonia is suspected. Accurate coding requires careful documentation of the cough's characteristics and any associated symptoms to ensure appropriate treatment and billing.
Detailed patient history, including duration and characteristics of cough, associated symptoms, and any relevant medical history.
Patients presenting with acute cough due to viral infections, exacerbations of chronic conditions, or allergic reactions.
Consideration of comorbidities that may complicate the diagnosis and treatment of acute cough.
Acute care documentation must include vital signs, immediate assessment findings, and any interventions performed.
Patients presenting with acute cough in the context of respiratory distress or severe infections.
Rapid assessment and documentation are crucial due to the potential for serious underlying conditions.
Used for follow-up visits for patients with acute cough.
Document the patient's history, examination findings, and treatment plan.
Internal medicine providers should ensure comprehensive documentation to support the visit level.
Acute cough lasts less than three weeks and is often associated with infections or irritants, while chronic cough persists for more than eight weeks and may indicate underlying chronic conditions.
