Nausea

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Common name: Nausea
- ICD-10 code: R11.0

#### Summary
Nausea is a sensation of unease and discomfort in the upper stomach, often accompanied by an urge to vomit. It is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of various underlying conditions.

#### Causes
Nausea can be caused by a wide range of factors including:
- Motion sickness or seasickness
- Gastrointestinal infections or food poisoning
- Pregnancy (morning sickness)
- Medications such as chemotherapy drugs
- Emotional stress or anxiety
- Overeating or drinking excessive alcohol

#### Risk Factors
Factors that may increase the likelihood of experiencing nausea include:
- Pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester
- History of motion sickness
- Frequent migraines
- Certain medications and treatments
- Traveling by sea or air

#### Symptoms
The primary symptom is a queasy sensation in the stomach, but it may also be accompanied by:
- Sweating
- Salivation
- Dizziness
- An urge to vomit

#### Diagnosis
Diagnosis often involves a physical examination and reviewing medical history. Additional tests may include:
- Blood tests to rule out infection or liver problems
- Imaging studies like an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan
- Endoscopy in cases of chronic symptoms

#### Treatment Options
Treatments vary depending on the underlying cause and may include:
- Antiemetic medications such as ondansetron or metoclopramide to relieve nausea
- Dietary changes, including bland diets
- Ginger supplements or teas may help alleviate symptoms
- Hydration and rest, especially if associated with viral infections

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
Most cases of nausea are mild and self-limiting, resolving as the underlying cause is treated. Regular follow-ups are necessary if associated with chronic conditions like migraines or medication side effects.

#### Complications
If left unmanaged, nausea can lead to:
- Dehydration due to vomiting
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Anxiety or stress due to persistent symptoms

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
Lifestyle changes can help manage or prevent nausea, such as:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoiding strong odors and triggers
- Staying hydrated
- Taking medication with food if possible

#### When to Seek Professional Help
Seek medical attention if nausea is accompanied by:
- Severe abdominal pain
- High fever
- Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth or dark urine
- Sudden weight loss

#### Additional Resources
- [National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/)
- [American Gastroenterological Association](https://www.gastro.org/)
- [MedlinePlus](https://medlineplus.gov/)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the coding reflects the specific symptom of nausea if no underlying cause is documented.
- Avoid confusion with other related symptoms like vomiting (R11.1).
- Use additional codes to capture the underlying cause if identified (e.g., R11.10 for vomiting alone).