K59.00
Constipation, unspecified
Diseases of the digestive system Billable
Quick Reference
Infrequent or difficult bowel movements (<3 per week)
Clinical Information
When to Use This Code
Infrequent or difficult bowel movements (<3 per week)
Common Clinical Scenarios
- Chronic constipation
- Opioid-induced constipation
- Constipation in elderly
- Laxative prescribing
Documentation Requirements
- Document stool frequency and consistency (Bristol scale)
- Record contributing medications (opioids, anticholinergics)
- Note duration of symptoms
- Specify treatments tried (fiber, laxatives)
Coding Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
These terms are included in this code:
Constipation NOSInfrequent bowel movementsDifficult defecation
Exclusion Terms
Do NOT use this code for:
- Fecal impaction (K56.41)
- IBS with constipation (K58.9)
- Intestinal obstruction (K56.-)
Coding Notes
Very common, often multifactorial
Screen for red flags (weight loss, rectal bleeding)
Address underlying causes (medications, dehydration)
Related ICD-10 Codes
Consider these related codes based on patient presentation:
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Code
K59.00
Category
Diseases of the digestive system
Billable Status
Billable
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