J98.01 Acute bronchospasm

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- **Acute Bronchospasm** (also known as bronchial spasm)

#### Summary
Acute bronchospasm is a sudden constriction of the muscles in the walls of the bronchioles in the lungs. This condition leads to difficulty breathing and is often associated with asthma, allergies, or respiratory infections.

#### Causes
Acute bronchospasm can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Respiratory infections
- Allergic reactions to airborne allergens
- Chemical irritants (e.g., smoke, pollution)
- Physical activity, particularly in cold air
- Certain medications

#### Risk Factors
Factors that increase the risk of developing acute bronchospasm include:
- Pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD
- Allergies
- Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
- Family history of asthma or allergies

#### Symptoms
Typical symptoms of acute bronchospasm include:
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Coughing

#### Diagnosis
Diagnosis is generally conducted through:
- Physical examination
- Pulmonary function tests
- Peak flow measurements
- Allergy testing if an allergic trigger is suspected

#### Treatment Options
Treatment options include:
- **Bronchodilators**: Inhalation of medications like albuterol that relax bronchial muscles
- **Anti-inflammatory medications**: Such as corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation
- **Avoidance strategies**: Identifying and avoiding triggers
These treatments help to alleviate symptoms and prevent future episodes.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
With appropriate treatment, symptoms of acute bronchospasm can be effectively managed. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment plans.

#### Complications
If untreated, acute bronchospasm can lead to:
- Severe respiratory distress
- Pneumonia
- Chronic respiratory problems

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
Preventive measures include:
- Immunizations against flu and pneumonia
- Smoking cessation
- Minimizing exposure to known allergens and irritants
- Using air purifiers

#### When to Seek Professional Help
Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing:
- Severe or worsening shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Blue lips or face

#### Additional Resources
- American Lung Association [lung.org](https://www.lung.org)
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America [aafa.org](https://www.aafa.org)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure correct ICD code J98.01 is used.
- Be aware of related conditions like asthma, which may require additional coding.
- Avoid confusing acute bronchospasm with asthma exacerbations, which are coded differently.

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