What Is Pulsatile Tinnitus? Tinnitus is one of many complicated conditions that require considerable time before experts can fully understand it. While the condition could be a standalone issue, it could be an underlying symptom of a completely different condition.
Furthermore, since there are different categories, the ringing in an individual’s ear could also result from a rare form of tinnitus, like pulsatile tinnitus.
Here, we will go over symptoms and potential causes of this type of tinnitus.
What Is Pulsatile Tinnitus?
First, it is important to properly understand pulsatile tinnitus before moving on to its many symptoms and causes. Unlike most other types of tinnitus, the pulsatile variant has a ringing noise that syncs with their heartbeats. The sound itself could be loud or soft, but it always syncs with an individual’s heartbeat.
Furthermore, it is not necessary for people with this rare tinnitus to only hear a ringing sound. Some have even described it as a whooshing sound. But similarly to other types of tinnitus, the pulsatile variant is likely a symptom of a much larger condition.
Individuals could be experiencing this tinnitus because of damage to the inner ear, some form of vascular disease, or an early sign of tumors in some rare cases. That’s why it’s crucial that you get in touch with a doctor as soon as you experience any symptoms that seem alarming.
How Does Pulsatile Tinnitus Affect the Body?
This form of tinnitus can significantly affect a person’s ability to focus on tasks or even sleep properly. Even if the ringing is soft, it can still affect an individual’s ability to sleep, work, or interact with people. A common side effect for some people is depression and lack of proper sleep.
Lack of proper sleep is especially harmful to individuals, as it can lead to stress which can worsen the ringing, making it even more difficult for people to sleep.
Common Symptoms of Pulsatile Tinnitus
Unfortunately, pulsatile tinnitus is a very personal condition, making it difficult for loved ones and family members to tell what is wrong. Therefore, it is up to the individual to spot tinnitus symptoms and find relevant help immediately.
The most common symptoms are very distinct ringing or whooshing sounds. While the sound itself could be soft or loud, it will always be in sync with the individual’s heartbeat. Although it is common to hear one’s heartbeat, especially during intense exercise, that is not the case with the pulsatile form of tinnitus. This sound is especially prominent at night when there are very few external sounds to block out the noise inside the ear. Pulsatile tinnitus symptoms can often be very distracting, often interfering with people’s lives.
Causes of Pulsatile Tinnitus
Despite being rare, physicians can often find out if pulsatile tinnitus results from some underlying health condition. Some major causes can include the following:
Blood Vessel Malformations and Disorders
Pulsatile tinnitus is often the result of malformations that can form near the ears. These abnormalities can include arteriovenous malformations or even aneurysms.
High Blood Pressure
Another very common cause for pulsatile tinnitus is high blood pressure, which itself can be caused due to multiple factors. Caffeine and alcohol consumption can be especially dangerous since they can spike blood pressure, increasing tinnitus symptoms.
Pulsatile Tinnitus Causes & Symptoms: Conclusion
Pulsatile tinnitus can be difficult to deal with, especially how personal it can sometimes be. If you have been experiencing these symptoms, even momentarily, you should contact Dr. Katz us at the Tinnitus Cognitive Center™ in New York today to book a convenient online session.
Tinnitus Cognitive Center™
Stephen Geller Katz, LCSW-R
646-213-2321
[…] it can also have varying categories where the symptoms on display can differ. Although rare, pulsatile tinnitus is a well know variant where the ringing is in sync with the individual’s […]