Hyperactive bowel sounds

This code signifies an abnormal increase in the frequency and/or intensity of bowel sounds detected during an abdominal auscultation. It indicates a state of heightened intestinal motility, often associated with various gastrointestinal disturbances.

Assign this code when the provider's documentation explicitly states "hyperactive bowel sounds" or a similar finding during a physical examination. This finding may be present in conditions such as gastroenteritis, early intestinal obstruction, or malabsorption syndromes.

• Do not code based solely on a nurse's note; physician documentation of the finding is required.
• This code represents a sign/symptom; sequence it after the definitive diagnosis if known.
• Distinguish from "absent bowel sounds" (R19.11) or "hypoactive bowel sounds" (R19.13).