Cough
ICD-10 R05 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cough.
Cough is a common symptom characterized by the involuntary expulsion of air from the lungs, often accompanied by a sound. It serves as a protective reflex to clear the airways of irritants, secretions, or foreign particles. Cough can be acute, lasting less than three weeks, or chronic, persisting for more than eight weeks. The clinical context of cough is broad, encompassing various etiologies such as infections (viral or bacterial), allergies, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and environmental irritants. The diagnostic approach typically involves a thorough history and physical examination, focusing on the duration, characteristics, and associated symptoms of the cough. Laboratory findings may include sputum analysis, chest X-rays, or pulmonary function tests to identify underlying causes. Accurate coding of cough requires careful documentation of its characteristics and any associated conditions, as it can significantly impact treatment and management strategies.
Detailed history of cough onset, duration, and associated symptoms (e.g., fever, sputum production).
Patients presenting with chronic cough due to asthma or GERD.
Consider comorbidities that may contribute to cough, such as heart failure or lung disease.
Acute assessment of cough, including vital signs and any immediate interventions.
Patients with acute cough due to pneumonia or anaphylaxis.
Rapid assessment and documentation of life-threatening conditions associated with cough.
Used when evaluating a patient with cough in an outpatient setting.
Document history, examination findings, and medical decision-making.
Internal medicine may require more detailed documentation of chronic conditions.
Acute cough lasts less than three weeks and is often associated with infections, while chronic cough persists for more than eight weeks and may indicate underlying conditions such as asthma or GERD.
