Experiencing a rhythmic pulsing, thumping, or whooshing sound in your ear that seems to sync with your heartbeat can be unsettling. This phenomenon, known as pulsatile tinnitus, can be concerning, especially when it appears suddenly. You might find yourself asking, “Why Do I Hear A Pulse In My Ear?” This article will explore the common causes of this auditory experience, when it might be a cause for concern, and what steps you should take.
What is Pulsatile Tinnitus?
Pulsatile tinnitus is a unique form of tinnitus where the sound you hear is rhythmic, often described as a pulsing, throbbing, or whooshing. Unlike the more common subjective tinnitus, which is often a constant ringing or buzzing not linked to an external source, pulsatile tinnitus is frequently caused by sounds generated within your own body, specifically related to blood flow. Most individuals experience this sound in just one ear, although it can occur in both. The sound arises from turbulent blood flow within the blood vessels of the neck or head, and conductive hearing loss can amplify these internal sounds.
Common Causes of Pulsatile Tinnitus
Several conditions can lead to the experience of hearing a pulse in your ear. Understanding these potential causes is the first step in addressing the issue.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are unable to travel effectively through the outer and middle ear to the inner ear. This can be due to various factors such as middle ear infections, inflammation, fluid accumulation, or problems with the small bones in the middle ear (ossicles). When conductive hearing loss is present, internal body sounds, including breathing, chewing, and blood flow, become more noticeable. Specifically, it can amplify the sound of blood flowing through the carotid artery and jugular vein, two major blood vessels located near the ears that carry blood to and from the brain.
Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease is characterized by the buildup of plaque, composed of fat and cholesterol, inside the carotid arteries. This buildup, known as atherosclerosis, can narrow the arteries and create irregular surfaces. As blood flows through these narrowed and roughened arteries, it can become turbulent, generating a pulsing sound that can be heard as pulsatile tinnitus.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Elevated blood pressure can also contribute to pulsatile tinnitus. When blood pressure is high, the force of blood flow through the arteries increases. This increased force can make blood flow in the carotid artery more turbulent, leading to the pulsating sound in the ear. Managing high blood pressure is important for overall health and may also help reduce pulsatile tinnitus in some cases.
Blood Vessel Disorders
Various blood vessel abnormalities can less commonly cause pulsatile tinnitus. These include:
- Aneurysm: A weakened and bulging section in a blood vessel wall.
- Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): An abnormal connection between an artery and a vein.
- Twisted Arteries: Irregularly shaped or tortuous arteries.
- Glomus Tumor: A benign tumor of blood vessels located behind the eardrum.
These conditions can alter blood flow dynamics and create sounds audible as pulsatile tinnitus.
When to Be Concerned and Seek Medical Advice
In many instances, pulsatile tinnitus is not indicative of a serious underlying condition and may resolve on its own. However, it’s important to pay attention to the duration and impact of the symptom.
If the pulsatile tinnitus:
- Persists for more than a few weeks.
- Becomes bothersome or disruptive to your daily life.
It is advisable to consult with your doctor. Your doctor will likely start by taking a detailed medical history and performing a physical examination, including examining your ears and listening to the blood flow in your neck arteries with a stethoscope. If necessary, further diagnostic tests may be recommended, such as a hearing test or imaging scans to investigate potential blood vessel abnormalities, especially if a bruit (an abnormal sound of blood flow) is detected in the carotid arteries.
Conclusion
Hearing a pulse in your ear, or pulsatile tinnitus, can be a curious and sometimes concerning symptom. While it is often benign and related to changes in blood flow or conductive hearing issues, it can sometimes signal an underlying medical condition. Understanding the potential causes, from common issues like conductive hearing loss and high blood pressure to rarer vascular disorders, is crucial. If you experience persistent or bothersome pulsatile tinnitus, seeking medical advice is a prudent step to ensure proper diagnosis and management. Remember, while often harmless, it’s always best to discuss any new or persistent health concerns with a healthcare professional.
