Top 5 Gastroenterology & Digestive Diseases & Their ICD-10 Codes

If you are experiencing severe abdominal pain, nausea or bloating, it could be a serious sign of a gastrointestinal condition that may require immediate medical attention. Gastrointestinal problems are quite common even though most people do not like to talk about such problems. Gastrointestinal disorders refer to any condition or disease that occurs within the gastrointestinal tract. Problems occur when nerves or muscles in any portion of the digestive tract (GI tract) do not function in a coordinated manner or when the sensitivity of the nerves of the intestines is impaired. Symptoms commonly include – pain, abdominal distension, heartburn, nausea, constipation and vomiting. These illnesses are commonly treated by gastroenterologists. Many of these conditions can be effectively prevented or minimized by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing good bowel habits and consuming over-the-counter medications.

Reports suggest that gastrointestinal disorders are placing a growing burden on Americans, causing an unprecedented number of clinic visits and hospitalizations. It is estimated that an overall annual healthcare expenditures for gastrointestinal diseases account for a total of $136 billion in the United States which is more than for heart disease, trauma, or mental health. It is important for gastroenterologists to ensure correct diagnosis of symptoms, treatment, and coding of different types of gastrointestinal disorders. However, with changing guidelines, coding and billing for such disorders can be a complex task. Relying on the services of an established gastroenterology medical billing company can help in accurate and timely claim submission for appropriate reimbursement.  Here discussed are the common gastrointestinal disorders and its related ICD-10 codes –

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) - Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder that arises when the stomach acid backs up or refluxes in to the esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth and stomach). Also called acid regurgitation, this condition can cause a burning sensation (known as heartburn) in the chest. Generally, caused by frequent acid reflux, the condition occurs among people of all age groups. However, it is more common among obese or overweight people, pregnant women, active or secondhand smokers and people who consume certain kind of medications. Heartburn or a burning sensation in your chest, usually after eating is one of the common symptoms associated with the condition. ICD-10 codes related to gastroesophageal reflux disease are:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the digestive system, particularly the large intestine. Also known as spastic colitis/irritable colon, this is a group of intestinal symptoms that typically occur together and causes inflammation in the digestive tract, resulting in severe complications. Reports suggest that IBS affects about 45 million people in the United States. In fact, women are almost twice as likely to develop this condition as men and the onset is usually before the age of 35 years (in almost half of the cases). Common symptoms include – abdominal pain, cramping or bloating, nausea, excess gas and bloating and change in bowel habits. The ICD-10 codes relevant to IBS include:

Ulcerative Colitis - Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-term inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. The condition occurs when the innermost lining of the large intestine/colon, rectum or both gets inflamed, producing tiny sores called ulcers on the lining of your colon. The exact cause for UC remains unclear, but researcher’s claims immune system malfunctions as one possible cause. Treatment for this condition involves anti-inflammatory drugs that help reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune system response. On the other hand, if medications alone aren’t effective at controlling the symptoms, surgery to remove colon may be an option. ICD-10 codes for diagnosing ulcerative colitis include –

 

Gastritis – Gastritis is the inflammation of the protective lining of the stomach. The inflammation is often the result of bacterial infections. In addition, regular use of certain pain relievers and drinking too much alcohol also can contribute to gastritis. Symptoms of gastritis include - abdominal pain (intermittent or constant burning, or gripping or gnawing pain), nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite and bloating, burping and belching. If left untreated, gastritis may lead to stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding. ICD-10 codes include –

Gallstones - Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid - usually made of cholesterol or bilirubin - that forms in your gall bladder or bile duct. Also known as cholecystitis, these stones can form when there is a chemical imbalance in the gallbladder. These can be tiny (the size of a grain of sand), or may be as large as a golf ball. In general, gallstones don’t cause any symptoms and don’t need any treatment. On the other hand, if a gallstone becomes trapped in an opening (duct) inside the gall bladder, it can trigger a sudden intense abdominal pain (known as biliary colic). Treatment for this condition usually involves medications (to dissolve gallstones) and in more complex cases gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy). ICD-10 codes to indicate a diagnosis of gallstones/ cholecystitis include –

From embarrassing gas to uncomfortable heartburn, everyone suffers from gastrointestinal disorders from time to time. Many of the symptoms of these disorders can be prevented or minimized by making adequate in diet and lifestyle habits. Following healthy lifestyle practices like avoiding fatty foods, practicing good bowel habits, drinking plenty of water and consuming a high-fiber healthy diet can help prevent the complications of gastrointestinal disorders.

Healthcare providers need to be well-informed about the specific ICD-10 codes to report common gastrointestinal disorders. Utilizing the services of a reliable medical billing and coding company can help or support physicians to ensure accurate claim submission for optimal reimbursement.