Hypertension, a condition characterized by elevated blood pressure, is a significant risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. The International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), provides a standardized system for coding and classifying diseases, including hypertension. In the ICD-10, hypertension is coded based on its type, severity, and associated complications.
Primary Hypertension ICD-10 Codes

Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is the most common form of hypertension, accounting for approximately 90% of all cases. The ICD-10 codes for primary hypertension are as follows:
- I10: Essential (primary) hypertension
This code is used to indicate a diagnosis of primary hypertension without any specified type or severity. However, it is essential to note that the ICD-10 provides more specific codes for different types and severity levels of hypertension.
Secondary Hypertension ICD-10 Codes
Secondary hypertension, on the other hand, is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease, sleep apnea, or adrenal gland tumors. The ICD-10 codes for secondary hypertension are as follows:
- I15.0: Hypertensive heart disease with heart failure
- I15.1: Hypertensive heart disease without heart failure
- I15.2: Hypertensive renal disease
These codes are used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary hypertension caused by a specific underlying condition. It is crucial to accurately code the underlying condition to ensure proper classification and treatment.
| Hypertension Type | ICD-10 Code |
|---|---|
| Primary hypertension | I10 |
| Secondary hypertension | I15.0-I15.2 |

Key Points
- The ICD-10 code for primary hypertension is I10.
- Secondary hypertension is coded based on the underlying condition, with codes ranging from I15.0 to I15.2.
- Accurate coding of hypertension is crucial for proper classification, treatment, and reimbursement.
- Healthcare professionals should always refer to the latest version of the ICD-10 manual for accurate coding.
- Hypertension is a significant risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases, and accurate coding can help identify high-risk patients.
Hypertension Severity and Complications

The ICD-10 also provides codes for different severity levels and complications of hypertension. For example:
- I11: Hypertensive heart disease
- I12: Hypertensive renal disease
- I13: Hypertensive heart and renal disease
These codes are used to indicate a diagnosis of hypertension with associated complications, such as heart disease or kidney disease. It is essential to accurately code the severity and complications of hypertension to ensure proper treatment and management.
Hypertension Management and Treatment
Effective management and treatment of hypertension are crucial to preventing cardiovascular diseases and reducing mortality. The ICD-10 codes for hypertension can help healthcare professionals identify high-risk patients and provide targeted interventions. For example:
- Z92.0: Hypertension screening
- Z95.0: Hypertension treatment
These codes are used to indicate a diagnosis of hypertension and the associated treatment or screening. Accurate coding of hypertension management and treatment can help ensure proper reimbursement and improve patient outcomes.
What is the ICD-10 code for primary hypertension?
+The ICD-10 code for primary hypertension is I10.
What is the difference between primary and secondary hypertension?
+Primary hypertension is the most common form of hypertension, accounting for approximately 90% of all cases, while secondary hypertension is caused by an underlying medical condition.
How do I accurately code hypertension in the ICD-10?
+To accurately code hypertension in the ICD-10, refer to the latest version of the ICD-10 manual and use the specific codes for primary or secondary hypertension, depending on the underlying condition.
In conclusion, accurate coding of hypertension is crucial for proper classification, treatment, and reimbursement. The ICD-10 provides a standardized system for coding and classifying diseases, including hypertension. By understanding the different ICD-10 codes for primary and secondary hypertension, healthcare professionals can provide targeted interventions and improve patient outcomes. Remember to always refer to the latest version of the ICD-10 manual for accurate coding and classification of hypertension.