H91.2: Sudden idiopathic hearing loss
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 actual hearing organ, the cochlea, is in the inner ear. The cochlea consists of a channel of bone in a spiral, like a snail. Inside the cochlea are the sensory cells for hearing. The inner ear connects to the brain via the auditory nerve.
The inner ear can stop working properly all of a sudden. One's hearing can deteriorate significantly in a short period of time. So it may be that you can no longer hear so well. You may even lose the ability to hear entirely. This hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. One may also feel dizzy, and feel pressure in the ear concerned. The reason for sudden hearing loss is unknown.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
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.