H52.229 Regular astigmatism, unspecified eye

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- **Regular astigmatism, unspecified eye**
- Often simply referred to as "astigmatism."

#### Summary
- Astigmatism is a common vision condition resulting from an irregularly shaped cornea or lens that leads to blurred vision. In regular astigmatism, the curvature of the eye's structures is evenly shaped but not perfectly spherical.

#### Causes
- The exact cause of astigmatism is not fully understood but is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect the shape of the eye.

#### Risk Factors
- Family history of astigmatism or other refractive errors.
- Presence of other refractive errors, such as myopia or hyperopia.
- Eye injuries or surgeries.

#### Symptoms
- Blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
- Difficulty seeing at night.
- Eye strain or discomfort.
- Headaches.

#### Diagnosis
- Comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
- Tests such as keratometry or corneal topography to measure curvature.

#### Treatment Options
- **Corrective lenses**: Glasses or contact lenses are the most common treatment, customized to counteract the irregular curvature.
- **Refractive surgery**: Procedures like LASIK reshape the cornea for permanent correction.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With proper correction, most people can achieve clear, comfortable vision. Ongoing eye exams are crucial to adjust prescriptions as needed.

#### Complications
- Depending on severity, untreated astigmatism can lead to chronic headaches or difficulties in activities requiring sharp vision.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- There are no definitive preventive measures for astigmatism, but regular eye exams can help with early detection and management.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- If you experience persistent blurred vision, headaches, or difficulty performing everyday activities due to vision problems.

#### Additional Resources
- [American Academy of Ophthalmology](https://www.aao.org/)
- [National Eye Institute](https://www.nei.nih.gov/)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate coding by verifying laterality; use unspecified only when no specific eye is indicated.
- Be cautious with visual acuity notes to avoid misinterpretation of severity.

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