Name of the Condition

• Common name: Chronic Idiopathic Constipation
• Medical term: CIC
• ICD-10-CM Code: K59.04

Summary

Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) is a medical condition characterized by persistent difficulty in passing stools or infrequent bowel movements without an identifiable cause. Despite extensive evaluation, the exact cause of constipation remains unknown, making it "idiopathic."

Causes

• The precise cause of CIC is unknown.
• It may be related to slow colonic transit, abnormal anorectal function, or a combination of multiple factors.

Risk Factors

• Age, particularly older adults
• Female gender
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Low dietary fiber intake
• Inadequate fluid intake

Symptoms

• Infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three times a week)
• Difficulty passing stools, often requiring straining
• Hard or lumpy stools
• Feeling of blockage or an incomplete evacuation

Diagnosis

• Patient history and physical examination
• Bowel habit evaluation
• Exclusion of secondary causes of constipation
• Tests such as colonoscopy, anorectal manometry, or colonic transit studies may be used.

Treatment Options

• Dietary changes, including increased fiber intake
• Adequate hydration
• Over-the-counter or prescribed laxatives
  • Bulk-forming agents (e.g., psyllium)
  • Osmotic agents (e.g., polyethylene glycol)
  • Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl)
• Behavioral therapies, such as biofeedback
• In some cases, prescription medications like lubiprostone or linaclotide

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• CIC can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes and medications, although some may experience persistent symptoms.
• Regular follow-up is important to assess treatment efficacy and make necessary adjustments.

Complications

• Hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures
• Fecal impaction or fecal incontinence
• Severe cases might lead to colonic damage if untreated

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Increase dietary fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
• Maintain good hydration.
• Regular physical activity.
• Establish a regular bowel movement routine.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Severe abdominal pain
• Unexpected weight loss
• Blood in stools
• Sudden changes in bowel habits
• Persistent constipation despite home treatment

Additional Resources

• American Gastroenterological Association (AGA)
• International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure proper documentation to confirm the diagnosis of idiopathic constipation.
• Distinguish between "idiopathic," secondary to another condition, and other types of constipation.
• Verify that other potential underlying causes of constipation have been ruled out before coding K59.04.