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You’ve probably heard a number of strange or weird things in your lifetime. From random jokes to noises outside of your home, your ears can pick up a number of different sounds that may or may not be explained. However, have you ever had an instance of hearing your own heartbeat?
Tinnitus in general refers to hearing sounds without an attributed external source. Most patients with tinnitus report hearing a ringing or “whooshing” sound in their ears and more prominently in quiet settings. It is a common condition that can affect up to 1 in 4 adults.
Pulsatile tinnitus, by contrast, is a hearing condition where one hears a throbbing, whooshing, or thumping noise that often seems to be in sync with your heartbeat. According to audiologist Carolyn Franks, AuD, CCC-A, who practices out of CEENTA’s Monroe office, “The noise one hears with pulsatile tinnitus can be loud or soft and is usually only present in one ear.”
This variation of tinnitus is rare and could indicate an underlying condition.
Pulsatile tinnitus is predominantly associated with blood vessels and artery dysfunctions near the affected ear. These can be brought on through conditions like:
In addition, pulsatile tinnitus can manifest as a result of intense exercise or stress.
While hearing your own heartbeat might seem like immediate cause for alarm, the condition itself is not dangerous. That said, it is a warning sign of more significant conditions or illnesses that need to be addressed such as hypertension or a tumor.
Treating pulsatile tinnitus involves treating its underlying cause. If it is brought on by stress, excessive exercise, or high blood pressure, your physician may recommend lifestyle changes to allow for better blood flow. Patients with pulsatile tinnitus due to head trauma, thyroid disorders, ear dysfunctions, or tumors may require consultations with head and neck surgeons to evaluate the next steps.
Your body is quite adept at telling you that something is wrong, and that can include hearing heartbeat sounds in your ear. If you believe you have pulsatile tinnitus, CEENTA’s team of audiologists and ENT physicians can provide a thorough diagnosis and treatment regimen for you to restore your hearing. To schedule your next audiology appointment with Carolyn Franks, AuD, CCC-A, at our Monroe location, call 704-295-3300.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician. If you or someone you love has hearing loss, make an appointment with a CEENTA audiologist by calling 704-295-3300.
If your student is struggling in school, it might be due to hearing loss. Learn more from CEENTA otolaryngologist Nicholas Stowell, MD, and your pediatric audiology options.
Audiologist Greer Baily, AuD, appeared on WCNC's Charlotte Today on October 18, 2024 to discuss pediatric hearing loss and cochlear implants.
CEENTA audiologist Carolyn Franks, AuD, CCA, appeared on WSOC's The Daily Two on July 26, 2024, to discuss hearing loss causes and hearing aid options.
