Ear Noises: Why Your Right Ear Sounds Like Your Heartbeat

Q: Ear Noises: Why Your Right Ear Sounds Like Your Heartbeat

Hello, the issues you mentioned could be due to： 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction： This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. <br>2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss. <br>3) O

There is a wind-like sound in the ear that matches the heartbeat frequency?

I hear a wind-like sound in my right ear that matches my heartbeat.
The symptoms are milder or even absent during the day while I'm active, but they become most noticeable at night when I'm lying down.
When I press on a certain area of my neck, the wind sound disappears.
I would like to know what might be causing this.

Shangbanzu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/05

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the issues you mentioned could be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over.
2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
3) Otitis media: a) Acute otitis media: Often occurs alongside upper respiratory infections (like colds) and sinusitis, and in severe cases, there may be ear discharge.
b) Chronic otitis media with acute exacerbation: This usually involves a pre-existing perforation in the eardrum, which can become inflamed due to unclean water or improper ear cleaning.
4) Issues with the internal carotid artery/vein: The likelihood is quite high.
All of the above conditions can be appropriately treated with medication after consulting a healthcare provider.
If you have already undergone pure tone audiometry (which requires headphones in a soundproof room, where sounds prompt you to press a button, rather than just using a tuning fork), and it confirmed that you do not have sudden sensorineural hearing loss, then medication may suffice.
However, if you have not had pure tone audiometry, it is advisable to visit a hospital for an examination to rule out sudden hearing loss.
The golden treatment period for sudden sensorineural hearing loss is two weeks, and early treatment yields better outcomes.
Wishing you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2021/12/05

More Info

Experiencing a sound in your ear that resembles your heartbeat, particularly when lying down, can be concerning and perplexing. This phenomenon is often referred to as "pulsatile tinnitus," which is a type of tinnitus where the sound you hear is in sync with your heartbeat. It's important to understand that this condition can have various underlying causes, and while it can be benign, it may also indicate a need for further evaluation.

One common reason for pulsatile tinnitus is the increased awareness of blood flow in the vessels near the ear. When you lie down, especially on your side, the position can amplify the sounds of blood flow, making it more noticeable. This is particularly true if there is any change in blood flow dynamics, such as increased blood pressure or changes in vascular structures. The sound may diminish when you apply pressure to certain areas of your neck, as this can alter blood flow or compress nearby blood vessels, temporarily reducing the sound.

Another potential cause is Eustachian tube dysfunction. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and helps equalize pressure. If this tube is not functioning properly, it can lead to a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear, which might be perceived as a sound. This dysfunction can be exacerbated by lying down or changes in head position.

In some cases, pulsatile tinnitus can be associated with more serious conditions, such as vascular malformations, high blood pressure, or even tumors affecting the blood vessels near the ear. However, these conditions are less common and typically present with additional symptoms.

Given that your symptoms are more pronounced at night and when lying down, it may be beneficial to monitor the situation. If the sound persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as hearing loss, dizziness, or pain, it would be wise to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, which may include hearing tests and imaging studies, to rule out any underlying conditions.

In the meantime, there are a few strategies you can employ to manage your symptoms. Keeping a sleep diary can help identify any patterns related to your sleep position or daily activities that may influence the sound. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques before bed may help reduce anxiety associated with the noise, which can sometimes exacerbate the perception of tinnitus.

In conclusion, while experiencing a heartbeat-like sound in your ear can be disconcerting, it is often related to benign causes such as changes in blood flow or Eustachian tube dysfunction. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is essential to ensure that any potential underlying issues are addressed promptly. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, so don't hesitate to reach out for professional guidance.

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