ICD-10 Code J31 – Chronic rhinitis, nasopharyngitis and pharyngitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J31 – Chronic rhinitis, nasopharyngitis and pharyngitis
What it is
J31 identifies chronic inflammation or irritation of the nose, nasopharynx, or pharynx. Use it for persistent upper airway conditions that are not acute infections and are documented as chronic.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings include ongoing nasal congestion, postnasal drip, throat irritation, or chronic sore throat without an acute infectious picture.
When to use this code
Use J31 when the record clearly documents chronic rhinitis, chronic nasopharyngitis, or chronic pharyngitis. It fits visits for persistent symptoms, follow-up care, or evaluation of a long-standing upper respiratory condition. Check documentation if the provider does not specify chronicity or anatomic site.
Do not use for
Do not use J31 for acute upper respiratory infections, allergic rhinitis, or clearly specified infectious pharyngitis. If the note points to another defined cause or an acute episode, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Code the condition only when the provider documents chronic disease and the affected site; otherwise, check documentation before assigning J31.