ICD-10 Code H91.9 – Unspecified hearing loss (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H91.9 – Unspecified hearing loss
What it is
H91.9 identifies hearing loss when the chart does not specify the type, ear, or cause. Use it when documentation confirms hearing loss but gives no further detail.
Clinical signs
Patients may report reduced hearing, asking for repetition, or difficulty following conversation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, and note that the record does not identify a more specific hearing-loss category.
When to use this code
Use H91.9 when the clinician documents hearing loss but does not state conductive, sensorineural, mixed, or unilateral/bilateral involvement. It also fits when the note says “hearing loss” without enough detail to assign a more specific code. Check documentation before defaulting to this code.
Do not use for
Do not use H91.9 if the record specifies the type of hearing loss or identifies an underlying condition that should be coded instead. Do not use it when the documentation is incomplete and clarification is needed.
Coding tip
Query for laterality and type whenever possible; unspecified coding should be your fallback, not your first choice.