Stridor
ICD-10 R06.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of stridor.
Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound caused by disrupted airflow, typically occurring during inhalation. It is a clinical sign indicating upper airway obstruction and can be indicative of serious underlying conditions. Stridor may arise from various etiologies, including laryngeal edema, foreign body aspiration, infections such as croup or epiglottitis, and tumors. The presence of stridor often necessitates immediate medical evaluation, as it can signify life-threatening airway compromise. Clinicians assess stridor through physical examination, noting the timing (inspiratory, expiratory, or biphasic), associated symptoms (such as respiratory distress or cyanosis), and the patient's history. Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans, may be employed to identify structural abnormalities or foreign bodies. Laboratory tests may include blood work to assess for infection or inflammation. Prompt recognition and management of stridor are crucial to prevent respiratory failure and ensure patient safety.
Detailed history of respiratory symptoms, physical examination findings, and any diagnostic tests performed.
Patients presenting with stridor due to infections, allergic reactions, or chronic respiratory conditions.
Consideration of comorbidities that may exacerbate stridor, such as asthma or COPD.
Immediate assessment of airway status, vital signs, and interventions taken.
Acute presentations of stridor due to foreign body aspiration or severe allergic reactions.
Rapid documentation of interventions and response to treatment is critical in emergency settings.
Used in cases of severe stridor requiring airway management.
Document the indication for intubation and the patient's response.
Emergency medicine providers must document the urgency and rationale for the procedure.
Stridor is a high-pitched sound typically associated with upper airway obstruction, while wheezing is a lower-pitched sound associated with bronchial obstruction. Accurate differentiation is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
