H40: Glaucoma

H40 refers to Glaucoma, a group of eye diseases characterized by optic nerve damage commonly associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). If untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss and is a leading cause of blindness worldwide.

Symptoms

• Gradual peripheral vision loss – Typical of open-angle glaucoma (H40)
• Severe eye pain and headache – Often seen in acute angle-closure glaucoma
• Halos around lights – Associated with increased IOP
• Redness and blurred vision – Signs of acute glaucoma attack
• Vision deterioration secondary to systemic disease – Found in H42 (e.g., diabetes, uveitis)
• Difficulty adjusting to darkness – Due to impaired optic nerve function
• Nausea or vomiting – Can accompany sudden IOP spikes

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Glaucoma includes tonometry (IOP measurement), optic nerve evaluation, visual field testing, gonioscopy, and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Early detection is critical to prevent vision loss.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code H40 is used by ophthalmologists and optometrists in routine screenings, surgical referrals, chronic disease management, and systemic disease tracking. It also supports insurance documentation for glaucoma medications, laser treatments, and surgical procedures.

Related Codes

• H42 – Glaucoma in diseases classified elsewhere

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code H40?
A: It designates Glaucoma, referring to optic nerve damage often linked to high eye pressure and requiring long-term management.

Q2: Can glaucoma be cured?
A: No, but early diagnosis and treatment can prevent or slow vision loss.

Q3: What treatments are available?
A: Options include medicated eye drops, laser trabeculoplasty, filtering surgery, or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).

Q4: What is secondary glaucoma (H42)?
A: It occurs due to systemic or ocular conditions like uveitis, trauma, or steroid use.

Q5: Who manages glaucoma?
A: Ophthalmologists primarily, with optometrists involved in monitoring and initial detection.

Conclusion

ICD10 code H40 helps ensure early identification, treatment planning, and long-term management of Glaucoma, preventing vision impairment and enhancing patient outcomes through regular monitoring and intervention.