High altitude periodic breathing

This code identifies a specific respiratory pattern characterized by alternating periods of hyperventilation and apnea, occurring in individuals exposed to high altitudes. It is a physiological response to hypobaric hypoxia, distinct from other sleep-related breathing disorders.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states "high altitude periodic breathing" or describes Cheyne-Stokes-like respiration directly attributed to high altitude exposure. This diagnosis is typically made in individuals recently ascended to high elevations who present with sleep disturbance or observed breathing irregularities during sleep.

• Differentiate from other forms of central sleep apnea (G47.310-G47.318) which are not altitude-induced.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the periodic breathing to high altitude exposure.
• Consider sequencing with codes for acute mountain sickness (T70.2XXA) if present.