One of the causes of tinnitus has to do with the blood vessels found within the year. Tinnitus itself is generally not a condition to worry about, but rather a symptom of an underlying cause. Most people do not have to worry about the symptom unless it becomes bothersome.
For others, though, it can signal the presence of an underlying blood vessel condition that may require further treatment. When you visit your LCSW-R in New York City, you’ll learn more if you may have what is called pulsatile tinnitus and what treatment options may be available to you for it.
What Is Pulsatile Tinnitus?
Pulsatile tinnitus is one type of ear noise that some people can develop. It is not like the traditional ringing in the ear but rather a more rhythmic sound. It may correlate with your heartbeat. It may sound like a whooshing sound or it may be more of a thumping sound. It is related to the way your blood is moving through your body. Also, known as a vascular form of tinnitus, only about three percent of people who experience tinnitus will have this form. It is considered a rare instance.
It occurs in the blood vessels that are found within the neck or head. You may have increased blood flow or a specific narrowing of the opening portion of a blood vessel. In some cases, you may have both. When this is the case, it causes a turbulent blood flow through the body and this is what you hear in your ears.
Treatment for Tinnitus
There are several treatment options that may be available to you if you have this form of tinnitus. The treatment will relate to the cause. For example, some people may experience this because of hypertension. In this cases, reducing blood pressure will be key. If you have twisted arteries, another common cause of this type of sound, you may not need any type of treatment. In still other conditions, it may be related to a growth, artery disease, or tumor. These all need to be further investigated by your doctor. Most of the time, treatment for these conditions is available and may be noninvasive.
However, even though it is rare, you should report any type of pulsatile tinnitus to your doctor right away. If you are not sure, contact your LCSW-R in New York City.