What Is Pulsatile Tinnitus?

It can occur in one or both ears and often presents rhythmically with a persons heartbeat.

This article discusses the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for pulsatile tinnitus.

What Are the Symptoms of Pulsatile Tinnitus?

The main sign of pulsatile tinnitus is regularly hearing sounds, such as a beat.

For example, sounds can develop because of changes inblood flow in veins or arteriesnear the ear.

Bone conduction helps to transmit acoustic vibrations so that sounds can be heard.

Essentially, people with this condition can hear their hearts beating from the inside.

Possible causes include:

In as many as 30% of pulsatile tinnitus cases, no cause is found.

Since many health disorders can cause pulsatile tinnitus, it can be either mild or dangerous.

It highly depends on the cause; some are benign, while others can be life-threatening.

Diagnosing pulsatile tinnitus involves collecting a health history and a list of symptoms.

If a medical provider suspects pulsatile tinnitus, they will investigate the cause of the symptom.

This is typically a last resort if other imaging tests do not provide enough information.

Pulsatile tinnitus can come before a stroke or bleeding in the brain.

That is why its vital to get adequate testing at the first sign of symptoms.

Treatment for pulsatile tinnitus begins with addressing the underlying cause.

Because of that, treatments can vary widely.

Healthcare providers may conduct various imaging tests to help diagnose pulsatile tinnitus because there are many possible causes.

In that case, you must manage your condition through various techniques, including sound therapy.

If you experience pulsatile tinnitus, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

It is curable; the faster you seek treatment, the better it will be for you.