2025 ICD-10-CM code J31.0
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Diseases of the respiratory system - Other diseases of upper respiratory tract Chapter 10: Diseases of the respiratory system Feed
Chronic rhinitis, a persistent inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane, lasting longer than 12 weeks.
Medical necessity for treatment of chronic rhinitis is established based on the duration and severity of symptoms impacting the patient's quality of life.The need for intervention is justified by the persistent inflammation and potential for complications such as sinusitis or nasal polyps.Documentation supporting medical necessity should include a detailed history, physical examination, and treatment plan tailored to the individual patient.
Diagnosis and management of chronic rhinitis typically falls under the responsibility of an otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) or primary care physician.Treatment may include nasal corticosteroids, saline nasal irrigation, and other medications as deemed clinically appropriate.
In simple words: Chronic rhinitis is a stuffy or runny nose that lasts for a long time (more than three months). It's not caused by a simple cold or allergies.It can cause a stuffy nose, a runny nose, sneezing, and postnasal drip.
Chronic rhinitis is a prolonged inflammation of the nasal mucosa characterized by symptoms such as nasal congestion, rhinorrhea (runny nose), sneezing, and postnasal drip.It can be classified into several subtypes including atrophic, granulomatous, hypertrophic, obstructive, ozena, purulent, and ulcerative rhinitis.The diagnosis requires a history of persistent symptoms for at least 12 weeks, excluding acute episodes such as common colds or allergic rhinitis.The etiology may be multifactorial, involving infections, irritants, or other underlying medical conditions.
Example 1: A 45-year-old patient presents with a persistent stuffy nose and postnasal drip for the past six months.Physical examination reveals chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa.The patient is diagnosed with chronic rhinitis and prescribed nasal corticosteroids., A 60-year-old patient with a history of smoking complains of a chronically dry and crusted nose.Otolaryngologic examination shows signs of atrophic rhinitis.The patient undergoes nasal irrigation and receives topical moisturizers., A 28-year-old patient experiences recurrent nasal obstruction and purulent rhinorrhea for over three months.Cultures reveal no bacterial infection.The physician suspects non-infectious chronic rhinitis and manages the symptoms with saline sprays and decongestants.
A thorough history of nasal symptoms, including duration, severity, and associated symptoms.A detailed physical examination documenting the appearance of the nasal mucosa.Potential investigations may include nasal endoscopy, allergy testing, or imaging studies to rule out other causes.
** Chronic rhinitis can be a challenging condition to manage, often requiring a multi-modal approach involving lifestyle changes (e.g., avoiding irritants), pharmacologic therapy, and potentially surgical interventions in severe cases.
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- Specialties:Otolaryngology, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine
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