Rhinitis

Overview

Rhinitis may be allergic, bacterial, granulomatous, or another diagnosed type. Documentation should identify the diagnosis, objective findings, treatment, and persistent effects.

What VA measures

Allergic or vasomotor rhinitis is addressed under diagnostic code 6522, with criteria centered on nasal polyps and degree of obstruction. Other forms of rhinitis have separate diagnostic codes and findings.

Evidence that may be useful

• ENT or allergy diagnosis
• Examination documenting obstruction or polyps
• Imaging or endoscopy when performed
• Medication, immunotherapy, or procedure history
• Relevant exposure and symptom history

Helpful documentation habits

• Keep examination findings that quantify obstruction
• Identify whether polyps were seen
• Separate seasonal symptoms from persistent findings
• Record response to medication or procedures

Common preparation gaps

• Treating sinusitis and rhinitis as interchangeable
• Describing congestion without objective findings
• Omitting the specific rhinitis diagnosis

Diagnostic-code map

A diagnosis or body part can involve more than one code. The applicable code depends on the medical findings and manifestations in the record.