Seasonal Allergies ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 codes are used for seasonal allergies?

The International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) is a system healthcare professionals use to code various diseases and health conditions. This guide focuses on the ICD-10-CM codes specifically used for seasonal allergies.

• J30.1 - Allergic rhinitis due to pollen: This code is specifically used when the allergic reaction is caused by pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds. This type of allergy is common in the spring and summer months when many plants are flowering. Symptoms include sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and itchy skin.
• J30.2 - Other seasonal allergic rhinitis: This code is designated for seasonal allergic rhinitis arising from various allergens present in the environment during certain times of the year. These allergens could include mold, dust mites, or specific allergens from plants that bloom or shed during those seasons.
• J30.81 - Allergic rhinitis due to animal (cat) (dog) hair and dander: Used when the allergic reaction occurs due to animal hair or dander exposure, this code covers reactions to various animals, including but not limited to cat and dog. Animal dander is a common trigger for people with allergic rhinitis.
• J30.89 - Other allergic rhinitis: This catch-all code is used for cases of allergic rhinitis that cannot be attributed to pollen or animals. This could include allergies to other environmental factors, such as dust mites or certain types of fungus.
• J30.0 - Vasomotor rhinitis: Although not caused by an allergy, this rhinitis triggers similar symptoms. Common triggers include irritants like smoke, extreme changes in weather, spicy food, or certain medications. The condition is characterized by nasal cavity inflammation and mucous membrane irritation.
• J30.9 - Allergic rhinitis, unspecified: This code is used when a patient has allergic rhinitis but the type (seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis) is not specified.
• J45.909 - Unspecified asthma, uncomplicated: Sometimes, seasonal allergies may trigger or exacerbate asthma symptoms. This code is used when a patient has unspecified asthma without mention of status asthmaticus or acute exacerbation.

Which seasonal allergies ICD codes are billable? 

• J30.1 - Allergic rhinitis due to pollen: Yes, this code is billable.
• J30.2 - Other seasonal allergic rhinitis: Yes, this code is billable.
• J30.81 - Allergic rhinitis due to animal (cat) (dog) hair and dander: Yes, this code is billable.
• J30.89 - Other allergic rhinitis: Yes, this code is billable.
• J30.0 - Vasomotor rhinitis: Yes, this code is billable.
• J30.9 - Allergic rhinitis, unspecified: Yes, this code is billable.
• J45.909 - Unspecified asthma, uncomplicated: Yes, this code is billable.

Clinical information

• Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, are an immune system response to certain allergens at specific times of the year, affecting millions worldwide.
• Common triggers of seasonal allergies include pollen from trees, grasses, weeds, mold spores, dust mites, and animal dander.
• Seasonal allergies typically cause symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and throat, coughing, fatigue, and sometimes, headaches or wheezing. Some patients may also develop dark circles under their eyes, commonly called "allergic shiners."
• Allergic rhinitis nose congestion can significantly impact quality of life, affecting sleep, work productivity, and daily activities.
• The severity and duration of seasonal allergy symptoms can vary, causing mild discomfort to severe impairment. Sometimes, they can lead to complications like sinusitis or secondary bacterial infections, potentially becoming chronic conditions.
• The exact cause of seasonal allergies is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to genetic predisposition and environmental exposure to allergens. The immune system overreacts to typically harmless substances.
• Diagnosing seasonal allergies often involves a detailed medical history, physical examination, and allergy testing. Allergy testing may include skin prick, intradermal, or specific IgE blood tests to identify specific allergens.
• Management and treatment options for seasonal allergies are typically multi-faceted and aim to reduce exposure to allergens, alleviate symptoms, and improve quality of life. These may include avoiding known allergens, using over-the-counter or prescription medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroid nasal sprays, and undergoing immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets).
• While there is no cure for seasonal allergies, most people can effectively manage their symptoms with appropriate treatment and lifestyle modifications.
• It's important to note that seasonal allergies sometimes trigger or exacerbate other respiratory conditions, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Therefore, managing these conditions alongside allergies is crucial in treatment plans.
• Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are vital to monitor the allergic condition, assess the effectiveness of treatment, and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

Synonyms include

• Hay fever
• Allergic rhinitis
• Pollen allergy
• Seasonal allergic rhinitis
• Seasonal allergy syndrome
• Allergic condition of the nose
• Rhinitis due to pollen
• Rhinitis due to animal hair and dander
• Vasomotor and allergic rhinitis