Dry Eyes ICD-10-CM Codes

Learn about the ICD-10-CM codes for dry eyes that you can use through this guide.

By Matt Olivares on Aug 8, 2025.

What ICD-10 codes are used for dry eyes?

Dry eyes (also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca), a common ocular condition characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, are classified by specific ICD-10-CM codes. Here are ten commonly used codes for this condition, along with brief clinical descriptions:

H16.221 - Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, not specified as Sjögren's, right eye: Used for dry eye syndrome in the right eye.
H16.222 - Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, not specified as Sjögren's, left eye: Applied for dry eye syndrome in the left eye.
H16.223 - Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, not specified as Sjögren's, bilateral: Utilized for dry eye syndrome in both eyes.
H16.229 - Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, not specified as Sjögren's, unspecified eye: Only use this if the specific location of dry eyes hasn't been identified; otherwise, use any of the aforementioned three codes accordingly.

Which dry eyes ICD codes are billable?

All four ICD codes mentioned above are billable.

Clinical information

Dry eyes, (a.k.a. dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca), is a common eye condition characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality.
Symptoms include a gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes, burning or stinging sensations, redness, and blurred vision. The presence of a foreign body in the eye may exacerbate these symptoms.
Evaluation involves a detailed patient history, including factors that may contribute to dry eyes, such as medications or environmental conditions.
Clinical tests, including the Schirmer and tear breakup time (TBUT), can measure tear production and stability.
Management includes artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to relieve symptoms and maintain eye moisture.
Lifestyle modifications, such as using a humidifier, avoiding eye irritants, and taking breaks during prolonged screen use, can help manage dry eyes.
For severe or persistent cases, prescription medications like cyclosporine or punctal plugs to block tear drainage may be considered.
Management plans should be tailored to the individual patient, considering the underlying cause and severity of dry eyes.
Patients with chronic dry eyes may require regular follow-up to assess treatment effectiveness and adjust management as needed.
Educating patients on proper eye care and the chronic nature of dry eyes is essential for long-term management and symptom relief.

Synonyms include

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Dry eye syndrome
Ocular surface disease
Tear film dysfunction
Evaporative dry eye
Dry eyes due to tear film insufficiency
Dry lacrimal gland
Disorders of lacrimal system
Stressed corneal epithelium due to dry eyes
Dry eyes, unspecified lacrimal gland
Dry eye, left lacrimal gland
Dry eye, right lacrimal gland

Popular search terms for dry eyes ICD-10 codes

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ICD-10 dry eyes
Dry eyes diagnosis codes
ICD-10 codes for dry eyes

Commonly asked questions

While dry eyes cannot always be cured, they can often be managed effectively with treatments such as artificial tears, lifestyle changes, and medications. The goal is to relieve symptoms and improve eye comfort.

Common risk factors for dry eyes include aging, hormonal changes (particularly in women), environmental factors (such as low humidity and exposure to wind or smoke), certain medical conditions (like autoimmune diseases), and the use of certain medications.

Yes, untreated dry eyes can lead to complications such as corneal damage, increased risk of eye infections, and impaired vision. It's essential to seek treatment and manage dry eye symptoms to prevent these complications.

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