Chills (without fever)
ICD-10 R68.83 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chills (without fever).
Chills without fever, classified under R68.83, refer to the sensation of coldness accompanied by shivering or shaking, occurring in the absence of an elevated body temperature. This symptom can arise from various underlying conditions, including infections, metabolic disorders, or psychological factors. Chills may be a response to environmental factors, such as exposure to cold temperatures, or may indicate a physiological reaction to stress or anxiety. In clinical practice, it is essential to differentiate chills from fever, as the presence of fever often suggests an infectious process. The absence of fever in patients experiencing chills necessitates a thorough evaluation to identify potential causes, which may include endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism, or acute stress responses. Accurate documentation of the patient's history, associated symptoms, and any relevant laboratory findings is crucial for appropriate coding and management.
Detailed patient history, including onset, duration, and associated symptoms of chills.
Patients presenting with chills due to metabolic disorders or infections without fever.
Consideration of chronic conditions that may contribute to chills, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders.
Acute care documentation must include vital signs, particularly temperature, and a thorough assessment of potential acute causes.
Patients presenting with acute chills following exposure to cold or in the context of acute stress.
Rapid assessment of differential diagnoses is critical in emergency settings.
When a patient presents with chills for evaluation.
Document the patient's history, examination findings, and any diagnostic tests performed.
Internal medicine providers should ensure comprehensive evaluations are documented.
Documentation should include the patient's history of chills, the absence of fever, any associated symptoms, and relevant clinical findings or laboratory results.
