Temporary Auditory Threshold Shift, Bilateral (ICD-10: H93.243)

Name of the Condition

• Temporary hearing loss, bilateral temporary threshold shift (TTS).

Summary

Temporary Auditory Threshold Shift (TTS) is a short-term hearing loss affecting both ears. It typically occurs after exposure to loud noises, making it difficult to hear clearly. The condition usually resolves on its own within a few minutes to a few hours.

Causes

• Exposure to loud noises such as concerts, fireworks, or machinery.
• Extended use of headphones at high volume.

Risk Factors

• Regular exposure to high decibel environments.
• Lack of ear protection in noisy surroundings.

Symptoms

• Difficulty hearing conversations.
• A feeling of muffled hearing in both ears.
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

Diagnosis

• Hearing tests (audiometry) conducted by audiologists to assess temporary changes in hearing thresholds.

Treatment Options

• Resting in a quiet environment to allow the ears to recover.
• Avoidance of loud sounds until hearing returns to normal.
• In rare cases, medical intervention may be necessary if the hearing does not improve.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• TTS generally has a good prognosis with hearing typically returning to baseline.
• Regular follow-ups are usually unnecessary unless symptoms persist.

Complications

• Risks of permanent hearing damage if repeated exposure to loud noises continues without protection.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Using ear protection like earplugs in noisy environments.
• Limiting time spent in loud settings.
• Keeping the volume down on personal listening devices.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If hearing does not return to normal within a few days.
• Persistent tinnitus or discomfort in the ears.

Additional Resources

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure 'bilateral' is documented as the condition affects both ears.
• Verify the temporary nature of the condition to distinguish it from permanent hearing loss codes.
• Watch for common errors like incorrect laterality or mixing up with similar auditory conditions.