Unspecified hearing loss
ICD-10 H91.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified hearing loss.
Unspecified hearing loss refers to a reduction in the ability to hear sounds without a specific diagnosis or etiology. This condition can manifest as a partial or complete inability to hear in one or both ears. Patients may present with symptoms such as difficulty understanding speech, asking for repetition, or needing to increase the volume of audio devices. The causes of hearing loss can be diverse, including age-related changes, noise exposure, ototoxic medications, infections, or congenital factors. Diagnostic evaluation typically involves audiometric testing, which assesses the degree and type of hearing loss, and may include imaging studies if a structural abnormality is suspected. Management strategies vary based on the underlying cause but may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, or surgical interventions for conditions like otosclerosis or chronic otitis media. Given the broad nature of this code, it is essential for healthcare providers to document any relevant clinical findings and patient history to support the diagnosis and ensure appropriate management.
Detailed audiometric evaluations, patient history, and physical examination findings.
Patients presenting with hearing loss of unknown origin, post-otitis media complications, or age-related hearing changes.
Ensure that all diagnostic tests and their results are documented to support the unspecified hearing loss diagnosis.
Comprehensive audiological assessments, including pure-tone audiometry and tympanometry results.
Patients undergoing routine hearing evaluations or those referred for further assessment of hearing loss.
Document the rationale for recommending hearing aids or other interventions based on the audiological findings.
Used when a patient presents with hearing loss for evaluation.
Audiometric test results and patient history must be documented.
Otolaryngologists and audiologists should ensure that the rationale for testing is clearly stated.
H91.9 should be used when a patient presents with hearing loss, and the specific cause is not documented or identified after a thorough evaluation.
