The sensation of a rhythmic whooshing sound in the ear, often described as a throbbing or pumping noise, is known as pulsatile tinnitus. Unlike the more common forms of tinnitus, which present as a continuous ringing or buzzing, this specific sound is synchronized with the heartbeat. People experiencing this symptom are essentially hearing the amplified sound of blood flowing through vessels near the ear structure. This experience can be unsettling and distracting, pointing toward a physical source for the noise. Understanding the underlying causes and available remedies is the first step toward finding relief from this unique auditory symptom.
Understanding Why the Whooshing Occurs
The rhythmic nature of pulsatile tinnitus indicates the sound is often a product of turbulent or altered blood flow in vessels close to the ear. This turbulence occurs when blood flow changes speed or volume, or when the vessels themselves are narrowed or irregular. Vascular conditions affecting arteries and veins in the head and neck are the most common causes.
A frequent vascular cause is atherosclerosis, where the hardening and narrowing of arteries forces blood to flow more forcefully. Conditions that increase the overall volume and speed of blood flow, such as severe anemia or an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), can also make the pulse sound more noticeable. High blood pressure (hypertension) similarly increases the force of blood against vessel walls, which the inner ear structure can pick up.
Structural issues near the auditory pathway also contribute to the whooshing noise. Abnormal connections between arteries and veins, known as arteriovenous malformations, create turbulent flow. Narrowing of large veins in the brain, called venous sinus stenosis, can disrupt normal blood flow. Benign tumors in the head or neck can also press against blood vessels, increasing pressure and amplifying the noise.
Other factors are mechanical or pressure-related, such as idiopathic intracranial hypertension, which involves increased pressure in the fluid surrounding the brain. This condition puts pressure on blood vessels near the ear, leading to the pulsatile sound. Less commonly, fluid in the middle ear or structural abnormalities of the inner ear bones can alter sound transmission, making internal blood flow audible. Identifying the specific source is paramount because treatment directly addresses the underlying cause.
Immediate Steps for Temporary Relief
While identifying the root cause requires medical evaluation, non-medical steps can temporarily manage the discomfort. One effective technique is sound masking, which involves introducing a competing, non-distracting sound to cover the whooshing. Devices that generate white noise, such as dedicated machines, fans, or air conditioners, help reduce the prominence of the internal sound, especially in quiet environments.
Experiment with positional changes, as the symptom may become louder when lying down due to changes in blood pressure or fluid dynamics. Raising the head slightly with an extra pillow might sometimes lessen the sound by affecting blood flow. Managing stress through relaxation techniques is also beneficial, since stress and anxiety intensify the perception of tinnitus.
Practices like deep breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation help calm the nervous system and reduce focus on the noise. These methods provide temporary distraction and reduce the emotional reaction to the sound. If minor ear canal obstructions, like earwax, amplify the whooshing, seek professional removal and avoid invasive cleaning.
Medical Diagnosis and Targeted Treatment
Seeking professional medical help is important since pulsatile tinnitus often signals an underlying, treatable condition. Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and a thorough examination of the head and neck. A physician may listen with a stethoscope near the ear or neck to determine if the sound is objective, meaning it can be heard by the examiner.
Diagnostic imaging tests are frequently used to visualize blood vessels and surrounding structures. These may include specialized ultrasound, Computed Tomography (CT) scans, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the head and neck. Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) or CT Angiography (CTA) are utilized to look for irregularities, narrowing, or blockages within the arteries and veins. Blood tests may also be ordered to check for conditions like anemia or thyroid disorders that increase blood flow.
Once a definitive cause is identified, treatment is targeted to resolve that issue. If the sound is caused by high blood pressure, medication to manage hypertension is often prescribed, which can reduce the pulsatile sound. Vascular malformations or significant vessel narrowing may require intervention, such as placing a stent to restore healthy blood flow. For cases related to fluid or infection in the middle ear, drainage or appropriate medication clears the mechanical obstruction.
Reducing Circulatory and Pressure Triggers
Long-term management of pulsatile tinnitus involves lifestyle adjustments aimed at reducing circulatory and pressure triggers. Since the whooshing sound is closely linked to blood flow, maintaining a heart-healthy diet is a helpful measure. Reducing sodium intake is particularly beneficial, as excessive salt consumption elevates blood pressure, which can exacerbate the symptom.
Incorporating regular physical activity is an effective strategy because exercise improves overall circulation and helps manage blood pressure. Even moderate activity, such as brisk walking, helps the cardiovascular system operate more efficiently, potentially making blood flow less turbulent near the ear. It is also advisable to limit or avoid substances like caffeine and alcohol, as they temporarily increase heart rate and may intensify the perception of the noise. Maintaining a healthy body weight supports cardiovascular health and reduces strain on the circulatory system.