ICD 10 CM F18.988 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 F18.988 describes a medical condition characterized by the continuous and repeated inhalation of vapors from common legal products, such as aerosols, gases, and other products containing hydrocarbons or volatile solvents, which quickly enter the bloodstream and cause significant psychoactive effects, potentially resulting in brain damage or even death, with the provider documenting an inhalant-induced disorder, such as mild neurocognitive disorder, that is not represented by another code, without specifying the type or degree of inhalant use or whether abuse or dependence is involved.

Official Description Of F18.988

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code F18.988 as:

When To Use F18.988

The diagnosis describes by ICD 10 CM F18.988 is related to the abuse of inhalants. Inhalants are substances that are commonly abused due to their easy availability and low cost. These substances include volatile solvents, aerosols, nitrites, and gases. They may be readily found in common household products such as paint thinner, deodorants, cooking sprays, butane lighters, and refrigerants. Individuals who abuse inhalants are often preteens, teenagers, and young adults.

Inhalants can act as gateway drugs to other abusive substances and may cause severe health consequences. Ether, laughing gas, and chloroform are also gas inhalants, but they are not as commonly abused as other products. Inhalants are typically inhaled to achieve a short-lived high. The effects of inhalants do not last long, and users may inhale repeatedly, leading to unconsciousness or sudden death.

Individuals who abuse inhalants may experience mild confusion, disorientation, and impaired motor skills. They may also suffer from nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of sensation, lethargy, stupor, paranoia, euphoria, headaches, dementia, and excitement. Long-term inhalant abuse may cause hearing loss, limb spasms, and permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain, liver, and kidneys.

A diagnosis of inhalant use disorder is typically made based on the patient’s medical history, signs and symptoms, a detailed inquiry into their personal and social behaviors, and physical examination. Laboratory tests may be conducted to detect specific inhalants in bodily fluids such as blood and urine.

Treating chronic inhalant users can be quite challenging. However, health care providers may use a variety of approaches to manage the condition, including education, prevention, counseling, admission to a residential treatment center, and family and group therapy. Individuals who suffer from inhalant-induced disorders may require additional therapies to treat organ damage, injuries, and suffocation.

In conclusion, the ICD 10 CM F18.988 diagnosis code is used to identify individuals who suffer from inhalant use disorder. Inhalant abuse can lead to severe health consequences and may even be fatal. Early intervention and timely treatment can help prevent long-term complications and improve the quality of life for individuals who suffer from this disorder.