Otalgia, bilateral

This code signifies ear pain experienced in both ears. It describes a symptom, not an underlying diagnosis, indicating discomfort or aching in the auditory organs on both sides of the head.

Apply this code when a patient presents with documented bilateral ear pain without a more specific diagnosis of the underlying cause. Supporting documentation should clearly state "bilateral otalgia" or "ear pain, both ears."

• Do not use this code if a more specific diagnosis for the ear pain (e.g., otitis media, otitis externa) is identified.
• Always sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis if an underlying cause for the bilateral otalgia is known and coded.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states "bilateral" to support the use of this specific code.