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ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for 7A00 - Chronic insomnia
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
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Understanding Chronic Insomnia (ICD-11 Code 7A00)

Chronic insomnia is a persistent sleep disorder characterised by frequent and enduring difficulties in initiating or maintaining sleep. This condition occurs despite adequate opportunities and suitable circumstances for rest. The persistent sleep disturbance leads to general dissatisfaction with sleep and significant daytime impairment.

Symptoms and Daytime Impact of Chronic Insomnia

Individuals experiencing chronic insomnia often report a range of daytime symptoms. These can include persistent fatigue, a depressed mood or increased irritability, a general feeling of malaise, and noticeable cognitive impairments such as difficulty concentrating or memory problems. The sleep disturbance typically occurs at least several times per week and persists for a minimum of three months. Patients may describe this as trouble falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, or waking too early and being unable to return to sleep, leading to a feeling of being unrested throughout the day.

Diagnosing Persistent Sleep Difficulties

The diagnosis of chronic insomnia relies on specific criteria. It requires a persistent pattern of sleep disturbance, including difficulties initiating or maintaining sleep, which is associated with daytime impairment. These symptoms must occur at least several times per week for a minimum duration of three months, and importantly, must be present despite adequate opportunity for sleep. It is also noted that individuals who report sleep-related symptoms but do not experience daytime impairment are generally not diagnosed with an insomnia disorder. Chronic insomnia can be diagnosed even when co-occurring with other medical or mental health conditions, provided the insomnia itself is an independent focus of clinical attention.

Factors Contributing to Chronic Insomnia

While the precise cause of chronic insomnia can vary among individuals, it often manifests even when conditions for sleep appear adequate. Significant life stressors, lifestyle factors, and certain underlying health conditions can contribute to or exacerbate persistent sleep difficulties. The diagnostic criteria emphasize that the sleep disturbance occurs despite sufficient opportunity for sleep, distinguishing it from issues related to sleep deprivation due to external circumstances.

Managing Chronic Insomnia

Effective management of chronic insomnia typically involves a comprehensive approach tailored to the individual. Strategies often focus on improving sleep hygiene, which includes establishing a consistent sleep schedule, optimising the sleep environment for rest, and avoiding stimulants before bedtime. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a widely recommended non-pharmacological treatment. Professional medical evaluation is essential to accurately identify contributing factors and to develop a personalised management plan.

Coding and Documentation for Chronic Insomnia

The official ICD-11 code for Chronic insomnia is `7A00`. This condition is also known by synonyms such as 'primary insomnia'. It falls under the broader classification of 'Sleep-wake disorders'. Healthcare providers use the ICD-11 code `7A00` for accurate medical billing and documentation when a patient is diagnosed with this persistent sleep difficulty.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 classification meaning of Chronic insomnia (7A00)?
Chronic insomnia (7A00) is a frequent and persistent difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, occurring despite adequate opportunity and circumstances for sleep, resulting in general sleep dissatisfaction and some form of daytime impairment.
What are the duration and frequency criteria for diagnosing Chronic insomnia (7A00) in ICD-11?
The sleep disturbance and associated daytime symptoms for Chronic insomnia (7A00) occur at least several times per week for at least 3 months.
Under what circumstances can Chronic insomnia (7A00) be diagnosed when other medical conditions or mental disorders are present, according to ICD-11?
Chronic insomnia (7A00) should only be diagnosed if the insomnia represents an independent focus of clinical attention, even when it is due to another sleep-wake disorder, a mental disorder, another medical condition, or a substance or medication.
How can the severity of Chronic insomnia (7A00) be specified using ICD-11 post-coordination?
The severity of Chronic insomnia (7A00) can be specified using post-coordination with codes such as Mild (XS5W), Moderate (XS0T), or Severe (XS25).
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