ICD-10 Code H81.12 – Benign paroxysmal vertigo, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H81.12 – Benign paroxysmal vertigo, left ear
What it is
H81.12 identifies benign paroxysmal vertigo affecting the left ear. It is used when brief vertigo episodes are documented as arising from the left side and are not due to another known cause.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden, short-lived spinning sensations, often triggered by head movement. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially for left-sided localization and any associated nystagmus.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents benign paroxysmal vertigo of the left ear, or clearly identifies the left ear as the affected side. It may be supported by positional dizziness or exam findings consistent with a peripheral vestibular disorder. If the side is not documented, check documentation before assigning laterality-specific coding.
Do not use for
Do not use it for dizziness without a documented diagnosis of benign paroxysmal vertigo. Also avoid it when the condition is not specified as left ear or when another vestibular, neurologic, or central cause is documented.
Coding tip
Confirm laterality in the note; H81.12 requires explicit left-ear documentation.