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H04.209
ICD-10-CM
Watery Eye

Find comprehensive information on watery eye, including epiphora, excessive tearing, and ocular discharge. Learn about clinical documentation requirements, ICD-10 codes (H04.2, H04.20, H04.21, H04.22, H04.23), differential diagnosis, and common causes like blocked tear ducts, allergies, and infections. This resource supports healthcare professionals in accurate diagnosis, coding, and treatment of watery eye conditions.

Also known as

Epiphora
Excessive Tearing

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC H04.209 Coding
H04.2

Epiphora

Excessive tearing or watering of the eye.

H00-H59

Diseases of the eye and adnexa

Covers various eye conditions, including tearing disorders.

R51

Headache

Watery eyes can be a symptom of headaches, especially cluster headaches.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.

Is the watery eye due to excessive lacrimation?

  • Yes

    Is there a specific cause identified?

  • No

    Is it due to insufficient drainage?

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Watery eye
Dry eye disease
Blocked tear duct

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Epiphora documentation: unilateral vs bilateral
  • Onset and duration of watery eye symptoms
  • Associated symptoms: itching, redness, pain
  • Physical exam findings: tearing, discharge
  • Diagnostic tests if performed and results

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Unspecified Laterality

    Coding watery eye without specifying right, left, or bilateral can lead to claim rejections and inaccurate data reporting. Use specific laterality codes for accurate reimbursement.

  • Epiphora vs. Tearing

    Incorrectly coding epiphora (H04.2) as general tearing can impact data analysis and quality reporting. Proper documentation is crucial for accurate coding.

  • Underlying Cause Missing

    Coding watery eye without documenting the underlying cause (e.g., infection, blockage) may lead to rejected claims. Complete documentation is key for appropriate coding and reimbursement.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • ICD-10 H04.2 Epiphora: Punctal occlusion for tear drainage optimization.
  • H04.22, H04.23 coding: CDI ensures proper lateral vs. medial canaliculitis documentation.
  • Schirmer's test: Compliant dry eye rule-out, supports H04.2 watery eye diagnosis.
  • Nasolacrimal duct obstruction: Dacryocystorhinostomy for H04.23 compliant coding.
  • Topical antihistamines for allergic conjunctivitis: CDI justifies H10.4, not just H04.2.

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Confirm epiphora complaint: onset, duration, laterality
  • Assess associated symptoms: nasal congestion, itching, pain
  • Evaluate puncta and canaliculi patency bilaterally
  • Rule out dry eye with Schirmer's test if indicated
  • Document cause of tearing: allergy, infection, obstruction

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Watery Eye Reimbursement: Coding accuracy impacts epiphora CPT codes (375.1x) influencing RVU and payment.
  • Quality Metrics Impact: Accurate watery eye diagnosis coding affects hospital quality reporting on ophthalmologic care.
  • Coding Optimization: ICD-10 (H04.2x) specificity crucial for maximizing watery eye reimbursement and avoiding denials.
  • Epiphora Claim Denial Prevention: Precise documentation linking symptoms, exam findings, and medical necessity reduces claim rejections.

Streamline Your Medical Coding

Let S10.AI help you select the most accurate ICD-10 codes. Our AI-powered assistant ensures compliance and reduces coding errors.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code underlying cause, not just watery eye
  • Epiphora ICD-10: H04.2, rule out H04.0
  • Document laterality: right, left, bilateral
  • Consider excessive tearing synonyms in documentation
  • Check medical necessity for diagnostic tests

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with epiphora, commonly known as watery eye.  The chief complaint is excessive tearing, which may be constant or intermittent.  Onset of symptoms is documented, along with any associated symptoms such as ocular discharge, redness, itching, foreign body sensation, pain, photophobia, blurred vision, or double vision.  Assessment includes evaluation of tear drainage, including patency of the puncta and canaliculi, and observation for any eyelid malposition such as ectropion or entropion.  Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is considered in the differential diagnosis.  The patient's medical history, including allergies, prior eye surgeries or trauma, and current medications, is reviewed.  Examination reveals clear or mucoid discharge.  The cause of the epiphora is determined to be [specify cause e.g., reflex tearing due to dry eye, punctal stenosis, nasolacrimal duct obstruction, etc.]. Treatment plan includes [specify treatment e.g., artificial tears for dry eye, warm compresses and massage for nasolacrimal duct obstruction, referral to ophthalmology for punctal dilation or dacryocystorhinostomy, etc.]. Patient education provided regarding the condition, treatment options, and expected outcomes.  Follow-up appointment scheduled as needed. Coding considerations include ICD-10 code H04.23 (Epiphora) and relevant CPT codes for procedures performed, such as probing of the nasolacrimal duct (68820).  Medical billing documentation reflects the complexity of the evaluation and management services provided.
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