What is the ICD-9 code for shortness of breath?

The ICD-9 code for shortness of breath is 786.05, according to ICD9Data.com. Shortness of breath may also be referred to as dyspnea, which is characterized by difficult or uncomfortable breathing leading to an inability or perceived inability for the lungs to receive sufficient oxygen, according to Disability Guidelines.

ICD-9 codes are the numbers used by in the United States for referencing and billing medical conditions based upon the ninth version of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Diseases, according to MDHealthResource. In general, codes in the 786 series of the ICD-9 pertain to conditions featuring symptoms of the respiratory system.