R19.7 Diarrhea, unspecified

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Diarrhea, unspecified
- Also known as non-specific diarrhea or unspecified diarrheal disorder.

#### Summary
Diarrhea, unspecified, is characterized by the frequent passage of loose or liquid stools. It is termed 'unspecified' when the exact cause is not identified. While often a temporary issue, understanding potential underlying causes is essential for proper management.

#### Causes
- Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections
- Food intolerances or allergies
- Medications such as antibiotics
- Underlying diseases like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Stress or anxiety

#### Risk Factors
- Consuming contaminated food or water
- Traveling to regions with inadequate sanitation
- Certain medications
- Pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions
- Weakened immune system

#### Symptoms
- Frequent loose or watery stools
- Abdominal cramping or pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Urgency to have a bowel movement

#### Diagnosis
- Patient history and physical examination
- Stool samples to check for pathogens
- Blood tests to identify dehydration or other issues
- Further investigations like colonoscopy if the condition persists or is severe

#### Treatment Options
- Rehydration through oral rehydration solutions
- Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide
- Probiotics to help restore gut flora
- Dietary adjustments, such as a bland diet initially
- Treatment of underlying cause if identified

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Often resolves in a few days without medical intervention
- Chronic cases may require ongoing treatment and monitoring
- Regular check-ups may be recommended if underlying health issues are present

#### Complications
- Dehydration, which can be severe, especially in children and the elderly
- Nutrient malabsorption 
- Weight loss if prolonged

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Ensure good hygiene, especially handwashing
- Drink clean and safe water; avoid potentially contaminated sources
- Maintain a balanced diet and avoid triggering foods

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent diarrhea lasting more than a few days
- Signs of dehydration such as extreme thirst, dark urine, dizziness
- High fever or blood in stools
- Severe abdominal or rectal pain

#### Additional Resources
- [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)](https://www.cdc.gov)
- [World Health Organization (WHO)](https://www.who.int)
- [American Gastroenterological Association](https://www.gastro.org)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the correct capture of unspecified diarrhea by using R19.7 when no specific cause is identified.
- Be cautious of coding errors such as misclassifying types of diarrhea without proper diagnosis.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Diarrhea, unspecified

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