Constipation ICD-10-CM Codes
Read this short guide and learn about constipation ICD codes you can use.
Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What constipation ICD codes can I use?
If you’re looking for constipation ICD codes to use, there are several that you can pick from. Here are six examples of constipation-related ICD-10 codes you can use:
- K59.00 - Constipation, unspecified
This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have constipation. What is unspecified is what type of constipation they have, so if ever you determine the specific type of constipation your patient has, it’s best to select a more specific ICD-10 code.
- K59.01 - Slow transit constipation
This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have slow transit constipation. This type of constipation is characterized by the slow movement of waste in the digestive system because the large intestines have reduced motility. This type of constipation is also called Lazy Bowel Syndrome.
- K59.02 - Outlet dysfunction constipation
This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have outlet dysfunction constipation. This type of constipation is characterized by difficulty passing on stools because of damage to the pelvic floor muscles or nerves.
- K59.03 - Drug induced constipation
This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have drug-induced constipation. This type of constipation is, as you can tell by the name, is caused by drugs. Drugs like Tylenol #3, oxycodone, and morphine slow down the movement of stool in the bowels. Since their movement in the bowels is slow due to drugs, the bowels have more time to take the water out of the stools, so they end up becoming hard and dry.
- K59.04 - Chronic idiopathic constipation
This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have chronic idiopathic constipation, a kind of constipation that does not result from underlying conditions or anything. It’s a type of constipation that just happens. It is characterized by infrequent stools that are difficult to pass, and those with it only poop thrice a week for more than six months.
- K59.09 - Other constipation
This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have a type of constipation that doesn’t have a specific ICD-10 code. If you have a patient with something like chronic constipation or chronic constipation with overflow, or something like constipation due to spasms of the colon, you can use this ICD-10 code.
Are these constipation ICD codes billable?
Yes. All of the aforementioned constipation-related ICD-10 codes are valid and billable.
Clinical information about constipation:
Constipation is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age. It is characterized by difficulty in passing stools regularly and completely. Although constipated individuals can still have bowel movements, they often experience challenges. The stool they pass is typically dry and hard, and it can vary in size. Some people may also experience mild discomfort during bowel movements, likely due to the larger size of the stool.
Various factors can contribute to constipation, including lifestyle choices. Not consuming enough fiber, inadequate hydration, excessive intake of dairy products like cheese and milk, and lack of exercise are common culprits. Additionally, certain medications and medical conditions can also lead to constipation.
Synonyms include:
- Acute constipation
- Atonic constipation
- Chronic constipation
- Constipation due to neurogenic bowel
- Constipation due to spasm of colon
- Drug-induced constipation
- Perceived constipation
- Simple constipation
- Therapeutic opioid induced constipation
.png)
Commonly asked questions
Yes, but we recommend not using them because they are invalid and unbillable.
Constipation can cause problems for some people. It can cause anal fissures to appear, damage your pelvic floor muscles/nerves, poop pile-ups in the rectum and anus, and diverticulitis.
Hydrate, avoid processed food, exercise, add vegetables and fruits to your diet, add high-fiber foods, add over-the-counter fiber supplements, and avoid holding off on pooping.
