Tinnitus, the perception of sound within the ear or head, can manifest in various ways. While often benign, pulsatile tinnitus warrants closer attention due to its potential links to underlying physical conditions. A common question is whether earwax buildup can contribute to this specific auditory sensation. Understanding earwax, pulsatile tinnitus, and their potential interaction can provide clarity.
Understanding Earwax Buildup
Earwax, or cerumen, is a naturally occurring waxy substance produced within the ear canal. It comprises shed skin cells, hair, and secretions from glands. This substance plays a protective role by cleaning, lubricating, and shielding the ear canal from dust, dirt, and infections. The ears are typically self-cleaning, with jaw movements helping to move old earwax out of the canal, where it eventually dries and falls out.
However, earwax can accumulate and cause a blockage, called cerumen impaction. This buildup can occur for several reasons, including naturally producing more earwax, having dry or hard earwax, or possessing narrow ear canals. A frequent cause of impaction is using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears, which often pushes wax deeper into the canal instead of removing it. This can lead to wax becoming tightly packed against the eardrum, potentially causing discomfort.
Understanding Pulsatile Tinnitus
Pulsatile tinnitus is a less common form of tinnitus characterized by a rhythmic sound, such as a whooshing, throbbing, or humming, that synchronizes with one’s heartbeat. Individuals often describe hearing their own pulse in their ear. Unlike non-pulsatile tinnitus, which typically involves constant noises like ringing or buzzing, pulsatile tinnitus often indicates an underlying physical issue.
This rhythmic sound can increase in pace with a rising heart rate and slow down as it decreases. While hearing one’s heartbeat can be normal during strenuous activity, people with pulsatile tinnitus often perceive it without exertion. This type of tinnitus can be heard in one or both ears and may be intermittent or constant.
The Connection: Earwax and Pulsatile Tinnitus
While earwax buildup commonly causes non-pulsatile tinnitus, its direct link to pulsatile tinnitus is less emphasized, though a connection can exist. Excessive earwax can press against the eardrum, affecting its normal vibration and interfering with sound conduction. This can lead to a perception of internal body sounds, including amplified blood flow noises within nearby vessels.
When impacted earwax obstructs the ear canal, it creates a physical barrier that alters how sounds are perceived. This obstruction can make the auditory system more sensitive to internal sounds, such as the turbulent flow of blood through vessels close to the ear. A significant earwax blockage can amplify these otherwise inaudible bodily sounds, leading to the rhythmic thumping or whooshing characteristic of pulsatile tinnitus. This occurs because the earwax impedes external sound, making internal sounds more noticeable.
Addressing Earwax-Related Pulsatile Tinnitus
Diagnosing earwax-related pulsatile tinnitus involves a healthcare professional visually examining the ear canal and eardrum using an otoscope. If earwax impaction is identified as the cause, its removal often resolves the symptoms. Several safe and effective methods exist for earwax removal, both professional and at home.
Professional removal techniques include microsuction, which uses a low-pressure suction pump to gently remove wax, and ear irrigation, where warm water flushes out the wax. Manual removal with specialized tools like a curette or forceps is also employed, especially for stubborn or deep impactions.
For home remedies, earwax softening drops can be used to loosen the wax, allowing it to fall out naturally or be gently flushed with warm water using a rubber-bulb syringe. These drops may contain:
Mineral oil
Baby oil
Glycerin
Hydrogen peroxide
Baking soda solution
It is important to avoid inserting cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects into the ear canal, as these can push the wax deeper, damage the eardrum, or cause infection.
When to Seek Medical Advice
It is important to consult a healthcare professional if pulsatile tinnitus persists, particularly if it occurs in only one ear or is accompanied by other symptoms. Sudden onset, or if accompanied by dizziness, hearing loss, headaches, or visual changes, warrants prompt medical evaluation. These additional symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition beyond simple earwax buildup.
A proper diagnosis is essential to rule out other potential causes of pulsatile tinnitus, which can include vascular issues, high blood pressure, or other medical conditions. While earwax can contribute to pulsatile sounds, a medical professional can determine the exact cause and recommend appropriate treatment, preventing complications.