Tinnitus
ICD-10 H93.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of tinnitus.
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present, often described as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or clicking in the ears. It can be a symptom of various underlying conditions affecting the auditory system, including age-related hearing loss, exposure to loud noises, ear infections, and certain medications. Tinnitus can be classified as subjective, where only the patient can hear the sound, or objective, where it can be detected by a clinician. The condition can significantly impact quality of life, leading to difficulties in concentration, sleep disturbances, and emotional distress. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough patient history, audiometric testing, and sometimes imaging studies to rule out other causes. Management strategies may include sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and in some cases, pharmacological interventions. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment and management of tinnitus.
Detailed audiometric evaluations, patient history, and any imaging studies performed.
Patients presenting with tinnitus following noise exposure or ear infections.
Documentation should clearly outline the relationship between tinnitus and any underlying ear conditions.
Comprehensive audiological assessments and patient-reported outcomes.
Assessment of tinnitus severity and its impact on hearing function.
Focus on the patient's subjective experience and the need for sound therapy options.
Used to assess middle ear function in patients with tinnitus.
Document the reason for the test and any findings.
Otolaryngologists should ensure that the test results correlate with the tinnitus diagnosis.
Subjective tinnitus is perceived only by the patient, while objective tinnitus can be detected by a clinician during examination, often associated with vascular or muscular issues.
