ICD-10 Code J45 – Asthma (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J45 – Asthma
What it is
J45 identifies asthma, a chronic inflammatory airway disorder that causes reversible airflow obstruction. Use it when the record documents asthma without a more specific subtype.
Clinical signs
Typical features include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and cough that may vary over time. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use J45 when the clinician diagnoses asthma and the chart does not specify a more detailed code. It also fits follow-up visits for known asthma when the condition is still active and relevant to care. Check documentation if the note mentions an exacerbation, status asthmaticus, or a specific asthma type.
Do not use for
Do not use J45 for wheezing or dyspnea alone without an asthma diagnosis. If the record identifies a more specific asthma category or an acute complication, code that documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Look for severity, acuity, and any triggers or complications before defaulting to J45.