H90.3 Sensorineural hearing loss, bilateral

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Sensorineural Hearing Loss, Bilateral (ICD Code: H90.3)
- Also known as bilateral SNHL.

#### Summary
Sensorineural hearing loss, bilateral, is a condition where there is a permanent reduction in hearing in both ears due to problems in the inner ear or auditory nerve. Unlike conductive hearing loss, which involves external or middle ear issues, sensorineural hearing loss arises from inner ear damage or nerve pathway disruptions.

#### Causes
- Genetic predispositions.
- Prolonged exposure to loud noises.
- Aging (presbycusis).
- Ototoxic medications.
- Infections such as meningitis.
- Head trauma or injury.

#### Risk Factors
- Advanced age.
- Family history of hearing loss.
- Certain occupational exposures to loud noises.
- Use of ototoxic drugs (e.g., certain antibiotics or chemotherapy agents).

#### Symptoms
- Difficulty understanding speech, especially against background noise.
- Muffled or distorted hearing.
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
- Needing to increase the volume on electronic devices more than usual.

#### Diagnosis
- Audiometric tests to assess hearing levels.
- Physical examination by an ENT specialist.
- Imaging studies (e.g., MRI or CT scan) may be conducted to rule out structural causes.

#### Treatment Options
- Hearing aids to amplify sounds.
- Cochlear implants for severe cases.
- Assistive listening devices and communication strategies.
- Training and rehabilitation to improve communication skills.
- Regular auditory monitoring and follow-up sessions with specialists.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Prognosis varies; hearing loss is typically permanent but can be managed effectively with technology.
- Regular follow-up with audiologists or hearing specialists is crucial for device adjustments and monitoring hearing levels.

#### Complications
- Difficulty in social interactions and communication.
- Increased risk of isolation, depression, or anxiety.
- Impact on work and daily activities.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Use hearing protection in noisy environments.
- Regular auditory check-ups.
- Avoid ototoxic substances when possible and discuss potential impacts of medications with a healthcare provider.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Noticeable or sudden changes in hearing.
- If you experience tinnitus, dizziness, or drainage from the ear.
- When hearing loss affects daily activities or quality of life.

#### Additional Resources
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
- Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the correct identification of bilateral involvement as different coding is required for unilateral hearing loss.
- Confirm the type of hearing loss (sensorineural) as it affects coding accuracy.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Sensorineural hearing loss, bilateral

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