ICD-10 Code H91.23 – Sudden idiopathic hearing loss, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H91.23 – Sudden idiopathic hearing loss, bilateral
What it is
H91.23 identifies sudden hearing loss in both ears with no known cause documented. Use it when the record states idiopathic bilateral hearing loss and does not identify trauma, infection, or another explanation.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a rapid drop in hearing on both sides, often noticed over hours to days. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for audiology results, onset timing, and whether the loss is sensorineural.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents sudden, unexplained hearing loss affecting both ears and the chart supports an idiopathic diagnosis. It is appropriate when the note clearly separates this condition from conductive causes or other known etiologies. Check documentation if laterality or cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use H91.23 for unilateral sudden hearing loss, chronic hearing loss, or hearing loss with an identified cause. If the documentation points to trauma, infection, medication effect, or another specific diagnosis, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and “idiopathic” wording before assigning H91.23.