If you've ever experienced the sensation of hearing your heartbeat in your ear, you’re not alone. This phenomenon, known as pulsatile tinnitus, is often harmless. However, it can also be a symptom of an underlying condition that may require medical attention.
In this blog, we’ll explore what can cause the “heartbeat in ear” sensation, when to seek help, how it’s diagnosed, and what treatment options are available.
Unlike regular tinnitus, which typically involves a constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears, pulsatile tinnitus is rhythmic and syncs up with your heartbeat. This happens because you’re actually hearing the blood flowing.
Let’s look at a few factors that can contribute to hearing your heartbeat in your ear:
Read about the connection between heart health and hearing loss.
While pulsatile tinnitus is often benign, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional, especially if you experience persistent or worsening symptoms or if they are accompanied by dizziness, vision changes, or neurological issues.
The diagnostic process typically begins with a detailed review of your medical history and a comprehensive examination of your head and neck. Your healthcare provider may check your eyes for signs of increased pressure in the brain and perform hearing tests to evaluate auditory function.
Depending on the results, imaging studies like an ultrasound, MRI or CT scan may be used to examine blood vessels and ear structures.
In about one-third of cases, the source of pulsatile tinnitus may remain undetermined. However, a thorough evaluation is still critical to exclude potentially serious and life-threatening causes.
Early evaluation and diagnosis can help address the cause of the sensation and provide a path toward effective treatment.
After a thorough evaluation, the tinnitus may persist. For many people, this pulsing often goes away on its own over time. However, if it doesn’t, treatment depends on the underlying cause of your pulsatile tinnitus:
We understand how critical your hearing health is to your overall well-being. If you’re experiencing unusual auditory symptoms, including hearing your heartbeat in your ear, we encourage you to talk to a healthcare professional. They can guide you toward a personalized solution that uncovers potential underlying causes and enhances your quality of life.
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