Fear of thunderstorms

This code signifies a specific phobia characterized by an intense, irrational, and persistent fear of thunderstorms (astraphobia or brontophobia). Individuals experience significant anxiety, panic, and avoidance behaviors when exposed to or anticipating a thunderstorm, leading to clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

This code is appropriate when a patient presents with diagnostic criteria for a specific phobia, specifically astraphobia, as documented by a mental health professional. It should be used when the fear of thunderstorms is the primary focus of the encounter or a significant contributing factor to the patient's symptoms and functional impairment. Documentation should clearly describe the phobic reaction to thunderstorms and its impact.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "fear of thunderstorms" or "astraphobia/brontophobia" as the specific phobia.
• Do not use this code for generalized anxiety or panic disorder without a specific phobic trigger related to thunderstorms.
• Consider co-occurring anxiety disorders or depressive episodes, and code them separately if clinically indicated.