Pulsatile Tinnitus
It’s completely normal to hear your heartbeat when doing physical activity or exercising. However, some people experience a pulsing sound in one or both ears, even while resting. This condition is known as Pulsatile Tinnitus, a rare but potentially serious issue that shouldn’t be ignored.
Unlike regular tinnitus, Pulsatile Tinnitus is often caused by vascular issues in the head or neck. The sound comes from within the body and is usually not audible to others. In some cases, it may disappear on its own, but if persistent, it may signal an underlying health condition requiring medical attention.
In this article, you’ll discover everything about Pulsatile Tinnitus—from symptoms and causes to diagnosis, treatment, and practical lifestyle tips.
- Symptoms of Pulsatile Tinnitus
- Causes of Pulsatile Tinnitus
- When to See an ENT Specialist
- Diagnosing Pulsatile Tinnitus
- How Pulsatile Tinnitus Is Treated1?
- How to Reduce or Eliminate Pulsatile Tinnitus?
Symptoms of Pulsatile Tinnitus
People suffering from Pulsatile Tinnitus often report:
Hearing a rhythmic pulsing sound in the ear, similar to a heartbeat.
The noise becomes more noticeable at night due to reduced environmental sounds.
Headaches and dizziness.
Visual disturbances.
It’s important to note that Pulsatile Tinnitus is not a disease itself—it’s a symptom. Proper medical examination by an ENT specialist is crucial to identify the root cause.
Causes of Pulsatile Tinnitus
Experts suggest several underlying causes for Pulsatile Tinnitus, such as:
Atherosclerosis
Fat buildup in the carotid arteries (located on each side of the neck) can alter blood flow to the brain, making the pulse audible in the ears.
Venous Hum
A common cause where the bone between the sigmoid sinus (a major vein) and the middle ear is thinned, allowing internal blood flow sounds to be heard.
Vascular Disorders
Abnormalities near the ears can change blood flow patterns. This includes:
Aneurysms
Arteriovenous malformations (abnormal connections between arteries and veins)
- Twisted arteries
High Blood Pressure
Elevated pressure increases blood flow intensity near the ears, making the pulse easier to hear.
Head and Neck Tumors
Tumors can compress blood vessels, affecting normal flow and resulting in Pulsatile Tinnitus.
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure causes headaches, visual symptoms, and pulsing tinnitus.
Sinus Infections
Nasal congestion can impact the middle ear, disrupting hearing and triggering pulsing sounds.
Severe Anemia
Changes in blood composition affect how it flows near the ear, creating noise.
Thyroid Overactivity
Hyperthyroidism speeds up circulation, potentially causing audible blood flow.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Issues with the ear’s sound-conducting structures—due to fluid, muscle spasms, or infection—can amplify internal sounds.
When to See an ENT Specialist
If you frequently hear a pulsing noise in your ear, it’s essential to consult an ENT doctor. Proper examination and imaging tests can reveal the exact cause and help prevent further complications like hearing loss.
Diagnosing Pulsatile Tinnitus
Your ENT specialist may perform:
A detailed interview about the timing and location of the sound.
Physical ear examination and hearing tests.
Blood pressure check and eye exam for signs of increased intracranial pressure.
Blood tests to assess anemia and thyroid function.
Imaging tests like:
MRI
CT scan
Doppler ultrasound
- Angiography
How Pulsatile Tinnitus Is Treated?
Once the root cause is identified, treatment may include:
Managing blood pressure with medications and lifestyle changes.
Treating anemia or thyroid disorders as necessary.
Correcting vascular issues, possibly through surgery, stenting, or other procedures.
How to Reduce or Eliminate Pulsatile Tinnitus?
In addition to medical treatment, the following habits can help reduce symptoms:
Relaxation Techniques
Meditation and breathing exercises can help lower your heart rate and ease stress-related symptoms.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Working with a therapist can train your mind to ignore the sound, reducing its impact on your life.
White Noise Machines
Using soft background sounds (fans, radios, or mobile apps) during sleep can mask the pulsing noise and improve rest.
Pulsatile Tinnitus can be distressing, but with the right diagnosis and management plan, most people find relief. Don’t ignore persistent ear noises—early medical attention can make all the difference in restoring peace and preventing complications.
