H91.93 Unspecified hearing loss, bilateral

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Unspecified hearing loss, bilateral

#### Summary
- Unspecified hearing loss, bilateral refers to hearing impairment in both ears without a defined underlying cause. The degree of hearing loss can vary, and it may impact the ability to perceive sounds, which can affect communication and quality of life.

#### Causes
- The condition may result from a range of potential causes including age-related changes (presbycusis), exposure to loud noises, ototoxic medications, infections, and underlying systemic diseases. When a specific cause is not identifiable, it is classified as "unspecified."

#### Risk Factors
- Age, prolonged exposure to loud environments, family history of hearing problems, use of ototoxic drugs, and chronic infections may increase the risk.

#### Symptoms
- Difficulty hearing conversations, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, needing to increase the volume on devices, and experiencing ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

#### Diagnosis
- An audiologist can assess hearing loss through audiometric tests. A complete medical evaluation may include an otoscopic examination and a detailed patient history to rule out specific causes.

#### Treatment Options
- Treatments might include hearing aids to amplify sound, cochlear implants for severe cases, or speech therapy to improve communication skills. Managing any underlying conditions can also help.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With appropriate management, individuals can improve their hearing function and communication abilities. Regular follow-ups with an audiologist or otolaryngologist are recommended to monitor the condition and adjust treatments as needed.

#### Complications
- Left untreated, hearing loss can lead to social isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, particularly in older adults.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Protect hearing by avoiding prolonged exposure to loud noises, using earplugs in noisy environments, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent conditions that contribute to hearing loss.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek professional help if there is a sudden change in hearing, persistent ringing in the ears, or if hearing loss interferes with daily life.

#### Additional Resources
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA): [www.asha.org](https://www.asha.org)
- Hearing Loss Association of America: [www.hearingloss.org](https://www.hearingloss.org)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accuracy by confirming the bilateral aspect of the hearing loss without a specified cause. Avoid coding for more specific types of hearing loss unless explicitly documented.
- Double-check laterality to avoid errors, as distinguishing between unilateral and bilateral hearing loss is crucial.

Similar Codes