Pulsatile Tinnitus: Causes and Concerns

Heartbeat sound in the ear?

Hello, I would like to ask about a recent issue I've been experiencing.
For the past few days, I've occasionally felt a thumping sound in my left ear that resembles a heartbeat, but it passes quickly.
It doesn't happen much when I'm lying down or standing, but I sometimes notice it when sitting or looking up and down.
What could this problem be? Thank you.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/13

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if the symptoms are temporary and disappear quickly, they are usually benign.
You can start by self-monitoring.
If the symptoms persist, you should visit an otolaryngologist for an examination.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/08/13

More Info

Pulsatile tinnitus is a type of tinnitus characterized by hearing a rhythmic sound that often coincides with the heartbeat. This condition can be quite concerning for those experiencing it, as it may indicate underlying vascular or neurological issues. Your description of hearing a "thumping" sound in your left ear that seems to be related to your position (more noticeable when sitting or bending) aligns with common presentations of pulsatile tinnitus.

There are several potential causes of pulsatile tinnitus. One of the most common is vascular abnormalities, such as increased blood flow in the vessels near the ear, which can occur due to various factors including high blood pressure, anemia, or even pregnancy. Other causes may include vascular malformations, such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), or conditions that affect the blood vessels, such as atherosclerosis. In some cases, the sound may be due to the presence of a tumor, such as a glomus tumor, which can affect the blood vessels in the ear region.

Another possibility is that the sound you are hearing is related to changes in the ear itself. For example, conditions like Eustachian tube dysfunction can lead to abnormal pressure in the ear, which may cause pulsatile sensations. Additionally, muscle spasms in the middle ear can create rhythmic sounds that mimic pulsatile tinnitus.

It is also worth noting that certain positions or movements can affect how sound is transmitted through the body. For instance, bending down or changing positions may alter the blood flow dynamics or the pressure in the ear, making the pulsatile sound more noticeable.

Given that your symptoms have been occurring for a few days, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, hearing tests, and possibly imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

In summary, while pulsatile tinnitus can be benign and related to positional changes or increased blood flow, it is essential to seek medical advice to ensure that there are no significant underlying issues. Early diagnosis and management can help alleviate symptoms and address any potential health concerns.

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