Name of the Condition

• Mild persistent asthma, uncomplicated
• Also known as low-grade chronic asthma

Summary

Mild persistent asthma is a long-term inflammatory condition of the airways, characterized by symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath that occur more than twice a week but not daily. The condition is manageable and typically does not interfere significantly with daily activities.

Causes

• Inflammation and narrowing of the airways due to exposure to allergens or irritants
• Genetic predisposition
• Viral respiratory infections
• Environmental factors such as pollution or tobacco smoke

Risk Factors

• Family history of asthma or other allergies
• Exposure to tobacco smoke, especially in infancy or early childhood
• Occupational exposures to irritants
• Living in urban areas with high pollution levels

Symptoms

• Wheezing
• Intermittent chest tightness
• Persistent cough, particularly at night or early morning
• Shortness of breath or quickness to tire during physical activity

Diagnosis

• Patient history and physical examination
• Spirometry testing to assess lung function
• Allergy testing to identify specific triggers
• Peak flow measurement for ongoing monitoring

Treatment Options

• Inhaled corticosteroids as a first-line treatment to reduce inflammation
• Long-acting bronchodilators for symptom control
• Leukotriene modifiers to prevent airway inflammation
• Allergen avoidance and lifestyle management

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment and management, individuals with mild persistent asthma can lead normal and active lives.
• Regular follow-ups to monitor lung function and adjust treatment as needed

Complications

• Acute asthma attacks if not properly managed
• Decreased quality of life due to frequent symptoms
• Increased risk of developing severe asthma

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Avoidance of known allergens and irritants
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular physical activity to strengthen respiratory muscles
• Use of air filters to improve home air quality

When to Seek Professional Help

• Symptoms worsening or becoming more frequent
• Use of a rescue inhaler more than twice a week
• Experiencing breathing difficulties that do not improve with medication

Additional Resources

• American Lung Association (lung.org)
• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (aafa.org)
• Global Initiative for Asthma (ginasthma.org)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure that the condition is coded as mild persistent asthma without complications (J45.30).
• Verify that there are no additional features, such as acute exacerbations, which might require a different code.