H74: Other disorders of middle ear and mastoid
H74.9: Disorder of middle ear and mastoid, unspecified
The ear is a sensory organ that is used to hear and to maintain one's balance. There are 3 different areas in the ear: the outer ear, middle ear and inner ear. The middle ear begins behind the eardrum. It consists of the air-filled tympanic cavity and the 3 ossicles. The ossicles transmit sounds from the eardrum to the inner ear in the form of vibrations. There is a small bony projection on the head behind the ear. It contains small cavities full of air. You can feel this bony projection behind the ear.
There are many reasons for changes in the middle ear or to the bone behind your ear. For example, a scar may have formed. A scar forms, for example, when the ear has been inflamed or injured.
If the middle ear or the bone behind one’s ear changes, there may be various symptoms. One’s hearing may be worse than usual, for example. They may also constantly hear a high-pitched sound. This is also known as tinnitus. Fluid may also be discharged from the ear.
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If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.