Temporary auditory threshold shift, left ear
ICD-10 H93.242 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of temporary auditory threshold shift, left ear.
Temporary auditory threshold shift refers to a transient change in hearing sensitivity, typically resulting from exposure to loud noise or other environmental factors. This condition is characterized by a temporary increase in auditory thresholds, meaning that sounds must be louder than usual for the individual to hear them. In the left ear, this shift can manifest as muffled hearing or difficulty in discerning sounds, particularly in noisy environments. The condition is often reversible, with hearing returning to baseline levels after a period of rest from the offending noise or stimulus. Clinically, patients may report symptoms such as tinnitus or a sensation of fullness in the ear. Diagnosis is typically made through audiometric testing, which reveals elevated thresholds in the affected ear. Management focuses on avoiding further exposure to loud sounds and monitoring for any persistent changes in hearing. In some cases, referral to an audiologist or otolaryngologist may be warranted for further evaluation and management. Understanding the nuances of this condition is essential for accurate coding and appropriate clinical management.
Detailed audiometric test results, patient history of noise exposure, and symptom duration.
Patients presenting with sudden hearing loss after exposure to loud environments, or those with tinnitus.
Ensure that all relevant diagnostic tests are documented to support the coding of temporary auditory threshold shifts.
Comprehensive audiological evaluations and patient-reported outcomes.
Patients undergoing routine hearing assessments who report temporary changes in hearing sensitivity.
Audiologists should provide clear documentation of test results and any recommendations for follow-up.
Used when performing audiometric testing to confirm a temporary auditory threshold shift.
Audiometric test results and patient history of noise exposure.
Otolaryngologists and audiologists should ensure that all relevant findings are documented.
Temporary auditory threshold shifts are reversible changes in hearing sensitivity often caused by noise exposure, while permanent shifts indicate lasting hearing loss that does not recover.
