According to HPI, "Modifying factors" refer to:

In the context of History of Present Illness (HPI), "modifying factors" specifically refer to aspects or elements that can influence the severity, presentation, or course of a patient's complaint. These factors include elements that can either improve or worsen the condition being evaluated. By identifying what helps alleviate the symptoms or what exacerbates them, a clinician can gain valuable insights into the patient's condition, guiding appropriate management and treatment strategies.

This understanding of modifying factors is critical in clinical documentation and coding, as it captures important information that can affect the overall assessment of the patient’s health status. By documenting these factors, healthcare providers can enhance the granularity of their evaluations and ensure a more comprehensive view of the patient's experience and symptoms.