Otalgia, bilateral
ICD-10 H92.03 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of otalgia, bilateral.
Otalgia, or ear pain, can occur due to various underlying conditions affecting the ear and surrounding structures. Bilateral otalgia indicates that the pain is present in both ears. Common causes include otitis media (middle ear infection), otitis externa (outer ear infection), and referred pain from dental issues or throat infections. Patients may present with symptoms such as sharp or dull pain, a feeling of fullness in the ears, hearing loss, or associated symptoms like fever and drainage. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough history and physical examination, including otoscopic evaluation to assess for signs of infection or other abnormalities. Management may include analgesics for pain relief, antibiotics for bacterial infections, or referral to an ENT specialist for persistent or complicated cases. Understanding the etiology of bilateral otalgia is crucial for effective treatment and coding, as it may be linked to systemic conditions or require surgical interventions such as tympanostomy or myringotomy in severe cases.
Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and any imaging or lab results.
Patients presenting with ear pain, hearing loss, or recurrent ear infections.
Ensure documentation reflects the bilateral nature of the condition and any interventions performed.
Comprehensive patient history, including duration and severity of pain, and any associated symptoms.
Initial evaluation of ear pain, management of uncomplicated otitis media or externa.
Document any referrals to specialists and follow-up care provided.
When cerumen impaction is contributing to bilateral ear pain.
Document the need for cerumen removal and any associated symptoms.
Otolaryngologists may perform this procedure in conjunction with other evaluations.
H92.03 specifies bilateral otalgia, while H92.00 is used for unspecified ear pain without indicating laterality.
