Improving Tinnitus After COVID-19: What You Need to Know

Q: Improving Tinnitus After COVID-19: What You Need to Know

Hello, sir： You mentioned that "you can feel your heartbeat when turning your head," which may indicate compression of the vertebral artery in the cervical spine. <br>It is advisable to avoid excessive neck twisting. <br>I recommend visiting a neurology clinic to discuss the poss

Improvement of Tinnitus Issues

Hello Doctor, three months ago I contracted COVID-19, and since then I have experienced significant tinnitus in my left ear, along with a loud heartbeat sound when I turn my head to the right.
I visited an ENT specialist in Taoyuan, who advised me that as long as I don't hear the heartbeat constantly, it should be fine.
Later, I consulted you online, and you suggested that if the symptoms persist, I should seek medical evaluation and recommended that I address my allergy issues first.
Now, three months later, the tinnitus in my left ear has almost disappeared, and the heartbeat sound I hear when I turn my head to the right is also nearly gone (although I still occasionally hear it, the sound is much softer compared to when I was first diagnosed).
Additionally, during my initial diagnosis, even bending down to pick up clothes from the dryer would trigger the heartbeat sound in my ear, but now that rarely happens.
I have a few questions:
1.
Given this improvement, what further efforts can I make to enhance my recovery?
2.
Under what circumstances should I seek medical attention urgently? Is it when the tinnitus persists or when the heartbeat sound does not subside?
3.
Lastly, due to this experience, I have become particularly aware of my left ear and noticed that occasionally during exercise, I can feel a few heartbeat sensations in my ear; also, when I just wake up and haven't had enough sleep, I can feel the heartbeat sound when I turn my head, but this sensation goes away after I have rested or after being active for a while.
I found online that some doctors say these two situations can be relieved with rest and are normal phenomena.
Are these two situations indeed normal physiological responses? Thank you, Doctor.

Ying, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/15

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, sir: You mentioned that "you can feel your heartbeat when turning your head," which may indicate compression of the vertebral artery in the cervical spine.
It is advisable to avoid excessive neck twisting.
I recommend visiting a neurology clinic to discuss the possibility of arranging a cervical ultrasound if necessary.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/02/15

More Info

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be a distressing condition, and its emergence following a COVID-19 infection has been reported by many individuals. Your experience of tinnitus and pulsatile tinnitus (the sound of your heartbeat in your ear) after contracting COVID-19 is not uncommon, and it appears that you are experiencing some improvement over time. Here’s a comprehensive response to your questions based on current medical understanding.

1. Further Improvements: To continue improving your tinnitus, consider the following strategies:
- Avoid Loud Noises: Protect your ears from loud environments, as exposure can exacerbate tinnitus.

- Manage Stress: Stress can worsen tinnitus. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can be beneficial.

- Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration can improve overall health and potentially reduce tinnitus symptoms.

- Hearing Protection: If you are in noisy environments, consider using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones.

- Consultation with a Specialist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider revisiting an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or an audiologist for further evaluation and management options, such as sound therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy.

2. When to Seek Medical Attention: You should seek medical attention if:
- Your tinnitus becomes persistent and significantly affects your daily life.

- You experience sudden changes in hearing, such as hearing loss or a sudden onset of severe tinnitus.

- There are additional symptoms such as dizziness, balance issues, or ear pain.

- You notice any new symptoms that concern you, especially if they are accompanied by other health changes.

3. Normal Physiological Responses: The sensations you describe—hearing your heartbeat in your ear during certain activities or when you are tired—can indeed be normal physiological responses. This phenomenon, known as pulsatile tinnitus, can occur due to increased awareness of bodily sounds when in a quiet environment or during physical exertion. Factors such as changes in blood flow, muscle tension, or even changes in ear pressure can contribute to these sensations. If these occurrences are infrequent and resolve quickly, they are generally not a cause for concern.

In summary, while your tinnitus appears to be improving, it is essential to maintain a proactive approach to your ear health. Continue to monitor your symptoms, manage any underlying conditions such as allergies, and practice good ear hygiene. If you experience any concerning changes, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options. Remember that tinnitus can be a complex condition, and what works for one person may not work for another, so a tailored approach is often necessary.

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