Feeling a pulsating sensation in your head, especially when lying down, can be concerning. While often harmless, understanding the potential causes can ease anxiety and help determine when medical attention is necessary. This article explores the reasons behind a noticeable pulse in the head, focusing on the temporal artery and other contributing factors.
The Temporal Artery and Pulsations
The temporal artery, a major blood vessel running along the side of your head, is often the source of a noticeable pulse above the ear. When lying down, the artery may be pressed against your pillow, making its pulsations more prominent. This is particularly true in quiet environments like the bedroom at night.
Common Causes of a Noticeable Head Pulse
- Heightened Awareness: Individuals with heart conditions tend to be more attuned to their body’s internal rhythms, including their heartbeat. This heightened awareness can make them more likely to notice the normal pulsations of the temporal artery.
- Positional Changes: As mentioned earlier, lying down can compress the temporal artery against a pillow, amplifying the sensation of pulsation. This is usually harmless and disappears when changing positions.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: While less common, a noticeable head pulse can sometimes indicate underlying health issues:
- Blood Vessel Malformations: Though rare, structural abnormalities in blood vessels can cause more pronounced pulsations.
- Increased Blood Flow: Conditions like anemia (low red blood cell count) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can increase cardiac output, leading to stronger pulses throughout the body, including the head.
Temporal Arteritis: A Less Likely Cause
While inflammation of the temporal artery (temporal arteritis) can occur, it typically reduces pulsations, making the artery difficult to feel. This condition is usually accompanied by other symptoms like headaches, jaw pain, and vision changes. Therefore, a strong pulse is not usually indicative of temporal arteritis.
High Blood Pressure and Head Pulses: Separating Fact from Fiction
Contrary to popular belief, high blood pressure rarely causes noticeable head pulsations. High blood pressure is largely asymptomatic until it reaches dangerously high levels. Headaches and nosebleeds are generally not caused by hypertension.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While feeling a pulse in your head is often benign, consulting a doctor is recommended if:
- The pulsation is new or suddenly becomes more pronounced.
- It’s accompanied by other symptoms like headaches, vision changes, or jaw pain.
- You have concerns about your cardiovascular health.
Conclusion
A noticeable pulse in the head, particularly near the temple, is often a normal physiological phenomenon, especially when lying down. Increased awareness, positional changes, and certain medical conditions can contribute to this sensation. While usually harmless, consulting a doctor is advisable if the pulsation is accompanied by other symptoms or causes concern. Regular blood pressure checks are also crucial for overall cardiovascular health, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms. Early detection and management of underlying conditions are vital for long-term well-being.
