Name of the Condition

• Nicotine Dependence, Cigarettes, Uncomplicated
• ICD-10 Code: F17.210
• Also known as tobacco use disorder or cigarette addiction.

Summary

Nicotine dependence, specifically from cigarette smoking, refers to an addiction to the nicotine chemical, which is naturally present in tobacco. This condition is characterized by a craving for nicotine and difficulty in quitting smoking, even though it is known to have harmful effects on health.

Causes

The primary cause of nicotine dependence is the habitual use of cigarettes, leading to chemical addiction. Nicotine activates reward centers in the brain, reinforcing the use of tobacco products.

Risk Factors

• Starting smoking at a young age
• Peer pressure or social influences
• Genetic predisposition to addiction
• High levels of stress or anxiety
• Co-occurring mental health disorders

Symptoms

• Strong cravings for nicotine
• Unsuccessful attempts to quit or reduce smoking
• Withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, or difficulty concentrating when not smoking

Diagnosis

• Self-reported nicotine use and dependence
• Evaluation using diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders
• Questionnaires like the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence

Treatment Options

• Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as patches, gums, and lozenges
• Prescription medications like bupropion (Zyban) or varenicline (Chantix)
• Behavioral therapies and support groups
• Counseling and educational programs to address smoking triggers

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With treatment, many individuals can reduce or quit smoking, significantly improving their health outlook.
• Continuous support and follow-up are crucial to prevent relapse.

Complications

• Increased risk of respiratory diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases
• Elevated cancer risk, especially lung cancer

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Avoid starting smoking or using tobacco products
• Creating a supportive environment for quitting
• Engaging in regular physical activity to reduce stress and cravings

When to Seek Professional Help

• Difficulty quitting smoking on your own
• Experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms
• Concern about health impacts from smoking

Additional Resources

• American Lung Association: www.lung.org
• Smokefree.gov: www.smokefree.gov
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Tobacco Information: www.cdc.gov/tobacco

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the use of specific code F17.210 for uncomplicated nicotine dependence on cigarettes.
• Watch for documentation of smoking history to support the coding.
• Avoid using incorrect codes for complicated tobacco dependence without clear indications of related disorders.