I10 - High blood pressure with no known underlying cause

International Classification of Diseases

Last updated: 10/3/2025

What is a ICD-10 Code?

ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) codes are used to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures recorded in association with hospital care. These codes provide a standardized way to track health conditions and their treatment outcomes.

Detailed Description

Essential hypertension, also called primary hypertension, means you have consistently high blood pressure (typically 130/80 mmHg or higher) that isn't caused by another medical condition. This is the most common type of high blood pressure, affecting millions of people. While the exact cause isn't known, it's often related to factors like genetics, age, diet, weight, and lifestyle. High blood pressure is called the 'silent killer' because it usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage if left untreated. The good news is that it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and/or medications.

Additional Information

This code is used for routine office visits to monitor and manage established hypertension. Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications and may include medications. Regular monitoring is essential to prevent complications.

Category

Cardiovascular Disease

Medical Specialty

Primary Care/Cardiology

Expected Costs

We expect this to normally be in the range of:

$150 - $400

This is an estimate based on typical billing patterns. Your actual cost may vary depending on your insurance coverage, provider location, and specific circumstances.

What's Required Before This

  • Blood pressure readings consistently above normal range
  • Multiple blood pressure measurements over time
  • Ruling out secondary causes of hypertension

What to Expect After

  • Regular blood pressure monitoring
  • Periodic lab tests to check for complications
  • Lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, weight management)
  • Medication management if prescribed
  • Annual eye exams and kidney function tests

Why Understanding This Code Matters

On Your Medical Bill

This code appears on your medical bills to identify the specific service, procedure, drug, or medical diagnosis you received. Understanding what it means helps you verify you're being charged correctly and know what to expect.

For Your Health

Knowing what this code represents helps you understand your treatment plan, ask better questions during appointments, and track your healthcare journey more effectively.

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