Name of the Condition

• Simple Chronic Conjunctivitis, Bilateral
• Also known as Chronic Inflammation of the Conjunctiva

Summary

Simple chronic conjunctivitis, bilateral (H10.423), is a persistent inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eyes and the inside of the eyelids, occurring in both eyes. It's characterized by irritation, redness, and discomfort.

Causes

• Long-term exposure to irritants such as smoke, dust, or wind.
• Allergens including pollen or pet dander.
• Chronic infections or inflammation.

Risk Factors

• Exposure to environmental irritants (e.g., smoke, pollution).
• Allergies.
• Extended use of contact lenses.
• Previous eye infections or chronic diseases affecting the eyes.

Symptoms

• Redness and irritation in both eyes.
• Persistent itching or burning sensation.
• Mild discharge or watery eyes.
• Sensation of grittiness or foreign bodies in the eyes.

Diagnosis

• Comprehensive eye examination by an eye specialist.
• Patient history evaluation to identify chronic nature and potential irritants.
• In some cases, swab tests to rule out bacterial infections.

Treatment Options

• Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to relieve dryness.
• Antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops to reduce allergic reactions and swelling.
• Avoidance of known irritants and allergens.
• Cold compresses can help alleviate symptoms.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Generally responsive to treatment with a good prognosis.
• Symptoms may flare up intermittently, requiring ongoing management.
• Regular follow-up visits to monitor the condition and adjust treatments as necessary.

Complications

• Potential for secondary infections if not properly managed.
• Possible chronic eye discomfort and persistent redness.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Minimize exposure to allergens and irritants.
• Maintain good eye hygiene by regularly cleaning eyelids.
• Use protective eyewear in environments with irritants.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If symptoms worsen or do not improve with standard treatment.
• Experiencing vision changes or severe eye pain.
• Discharge becomes thick or changes color.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Ophthalmology: www.aao.org
• National Eye Institute: www.nei.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the condition is specified as bilateral when coding.
• Check for documentation of duration to differentiate from acute conjunctivitis.
• Avoid common errors like coding for infectious conjunctivitis if not verified.