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A kind of tinnitus known as pulsatile tinnitus is characterized by a pulse-like sound in one or both ears. It may indicate an underlying medical problem or be brought on by several lifestyle choices. We’ll look at the causes of pulsatile tinnitus and advise on how to identify likely reasons and lessen symptoms.
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Common Causes
A rhythmic or pulsating sound in the ears is a defining characteristic of pulsatile tinnitus, a kind of tinnitus. It often results from an underlying medical problem and may significantly affect a person’s quality of life. One of the most frequent reasons for pulsatile tinnitus is an abnormal growth, like a tumor, in the blood arteries close to the ears.
Pulsatile tinnitus may also be brought on by high blood pressure, neck artery narrowing, and atherosclerosis, a disorder that causes narrowing. Pulsatile tinnitus may also result from a perilymph fistula (PLF), an opening between the middle and inner ears.
This form of tinnitus may also be brought on by loud noises that harm the inner ear. Middle ear fluid buildup or ear wax accumulation may also bring it on. Disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) may also be a cause. Lastly, pulsatile tinnitus may also be brought on by anemia or other blood diseases. If you encounter this condition, you should visit a doctor immediately. A doctor may suggest possible treatments and assist in determining the underlying problem.
Diagnosing Pulsatile Tinnitus
A clinician often performs a physical examination and studies the patient’s medical history to identify pulsatile tinnitus. Imaging procedures such as an MRI or CT scan may be performed to determine the condition’s underlying cause. Blood testing may also be performed to find hidden illnesses like anemia or aberrant hormone levels.
Hearing tests may sometimes be required to rule out alternative tinnitus causes, such as hearing loss brought on by noise. It is also possible to utilize echocardiograms or electrocardiograms to look for any cardiac abnormalities that could be the source of your pulsatile tinnitus.
It is essential to remember that although external circumstances may sometimes cause pulsatile tinnitus, it can also be a symptom of a core medical disease. These include alterations in the blood flow in the inner ear or certain drugs. Temporary changes in the ear canal caused by allergies or ear infections may also occur. You should see your doctor to determine the possible underlying cause.
Pulsatile Tinnitus Treatments
This condition can be distressing and challenging to treat. Fortunately, some therapies may aid in symptom reduction or even symptom eradication. Vascular surgery may effectively treat it. Correcting any vascular anomalies or stenosis (blockages) may lessen the symptoms. Additionally, drugs that lower cholesterol and blood pressure may be beneficial.
Another successful therapy for this condition is noise reduction. Earplugs or headphones with noise-canceling capabilities may diminish the sound of tinnitus. Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation practices may also help lower stress and tension, which can exacerbate symptoms.
Additionally, talking to a licensed counselor can be helpful. Counseling might help manage the stress and worry that can sometimes worsen the condition. Hearing aids may also help muffle the sound of tinnitus.
Must I See a Doctor?
This particular form of tinnitus may indicate an underlying medical issue. High blood pressure, anemia, atherosclerosis, tumors, Meniere’s disease, and aberrant blood vessel formation in the ear are among the most typical causes of pulsatile tinnitus.
To identify the underlying reason for your pulsatile tinnitus and create a suitable treatment plan, you must speak with a physician or expert if you suffer from it. See a doctor if your tinnitus persists for more than two weeks or worsens or if you suffer pulsatile tinnitus symptoms like pressure or fullness in your ears. To assist them in identifying the source of your tinnitus, your doctor could request tests like an MRI or CT scan.
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Are There Any Lifestyle Changes I Can Make to Reduce the Symptoms of Pulsatile Tinnitus?
One of the most crucial measures for reducing symptoms is minimizing stress and anxiety via relaxation methods like yoga and meditation. Additionally, it’s vital to stay away from noisy areas and use earplugs if you must be around loud sounds. Alcohol, nicotine, and other stimulants like coffee should also be avoided since they may worsen tinnitus symptoms.
A balanced diet is essential for minimizing the signs and symptoms of pulsatile tinnitus. Avoiding meals with salt, sugar, and MSG helps lessen the severe symptoms. It’s crucial to regularly exercise, get enough sleep, and manage any hypertension that may be present.
If you are taking medications that may exacerbate your tinnitus symptoms, it is advisable to discuss alternate drugs or therapies with your doctor. Maintaining a regular sleep pattern and avoiding physically demanding activities that might raise your blood pressure is also crucial. These easy methods may assist in easing the effects of pulsatile tinnitus.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does pulsatile tinnitus differ from non-pulsatile tinnitus?
1. Pulsatile tinnitus is a rhythmic sound often synchronized with the heartbeat. It can be described as whooshing, thumping, or pulsing.
2. Non-pulsatile tinnitus is a continuous sound like ringing, buzzing, or hissing. It has no rhythmic pattern.
The underlying causes and treatments for these two types can vary significantly.
What are pulsatile tinnitus’s less common but serious causes?
1. Vascular tumors: Rare but potentially life-threatening. Early detection is crucial.
2. Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs): Abnormal links between arteries and veins requiring specialized treatment.
3. Dissection of head and neck arteries: A tear in the artery wall is a medical emergency.
4. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH): Increased pressure in the skull, more common in overweight women of childbearing age.
Can this condition be a symptom of a neurological issue?
Rarely, but it can be associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) or other neurological disorders that affect blood flow in the brain.
How does aging affect the likelihood of developing this condition?
As we age, blood vessels naturally become less elastic. This can increase the risk of turbulent blood flow, a common cause of tinnitus.
Are there specific risk factors for women?
Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD), an arterial disease, is more common in women and can contribute to the condition. Hormonal changes through pregnancy or menopause can also sometimes exacerbate pulsatile tinnitus.
What role does imaging play in the diagnosis?
1. MRI and MRA (magnetic resonance angiography): Provide detailed images of blood vessels and brain structures.
2. CTA (computed tomography angiography): Offers a 3D view of blood vessels.
3. Ultrasound: Assesses blood flow in neck arteries.
Can certain medications worsen the condition?
Yes, vasodilators (medications that widen blood vessels) can sometimes make sounds more noticeable due to increased blood flow.
Is there a link between high cholesterol and pulsatile tinnitus?
High cholesterol can contribute to atherosclerosis (narrowing arteries), leading to turbulent blood flow and tinnitus.
What are the latest treatments for pulsatile tinnitus caused by vascular issues?
1. Endovascular procedures: Minimally invasive techniques to treat narrowed or abnormal blood vessels.
2. Stenting: Placement of a small tube to keep a blood vessel open.
3. Embolization: Blocking off an abnormal blood vessel.
Are there any promising research directions for pulsatile tinnitus?
Ongoing research is exploring the role of neurovascular coupling (the relationship involving brain activity and blood flow) in pulsatile tinnitus. Interest is also growing in developing targeted drug therapies for specific causes of pulsatile tinnitus.
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References
- Northwestern Medicine Pulsatile Tinnitus Clinic FAQ: https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/neurosciences/northwestern-medicine-pulsatile-tinnitus-clinic/pulsatile-tinnitus-faq
- UCSF Radiology Pulsatile Tinnitus Causes and Treatments: https://radiology.ucsf.edu/pulsatile-tinnitus
- StatPearls Pulsatile Tinnitus: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553153/
- Penn Medicine Pulsatile Tinnitus: https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/pulsatile-tinnitus