R052 - Subacute cough - a cough that has persisted for several weeks

International Classification of Diseases

Last updated: 3/13/2026

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

This code represents a subacute cough, which is a cough that typically lasts between 3-8 weeks. It's longer than an acute cough (which lasts less than 3 weeks) but shorter than a chronic cough (which lasts more than 8 weeks). This type of cough often occurs after respiratory infections or other conditions and may take time to resolve completely. The code falls under the category of symptoms and signs that are documented when the underlying cause may not yet be determined or when the cough itself is the primary concern being addressed.

Additional Information

This is a symptom code used when documenting a cough that has persisted for several weeks. The underlying cause may require separate coding and treatment.

Category

Symptoms, signs and abnormal clinical and laboratory findings

Medical Specialty

Primary Care, Pulmonology, Internal Medicine

Expected Costs

Your actual cost will depend on your insurance coverage, provider location, and specific circumstances.

What's Required Before This

  • Medical evaluation to determine duration and characteristics of cough

What to Expect After

  • Monitor cough duration and severity
  • Evaluate for underlying causes if cough persists
  • Consider further testing if cough becomes chronic

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.

Want This Level of Detail on All Your Claims?

Get detailed explanations for every medical code on your Medicare bills. Currently supporting Medicare only.