Some individuals can voluntarily produce a distinct sound within their ears, often described as a low rumble, roar, or thumping. This internal auditory experience means only the individual can perceive it. For those who discover they can create this noise at will, it can be a surprising phenomenon.
The Mechanism of Voluntary Ear Roaring
The ability to create a voluntary roaring sound in the ear stems from the contraction of the tensor tympani, a small muscle located within the middle ear. This muscle connects to the malleus, one of the tiny bones that transmit sound vibrations to the inner ear. Its primary function is to dampen loud sounds, such as those produced during chewing or shouting, by tensing the eardrum.
When the tensor tympani muscle contracts, it pulls the malleus inward, which in turn tenses the tympanic membrane, or eardrum. This action reduces the eardrum’s ability to vibrate freely, thereby diminishing the amplitude of sound transmission to the inner ear. The sound perceived during voluntary contraction is essentially the sound of the muscle itself tensing, creating a low-frequency rumble. The muscle also contracts involuntarily in response to self-generated sounds like yawning or speaking, potentially preventing these internal noises from overwhelming hearing.
Distinguishing Voluntary Roaring from Other Ear Sounds
Voluntary ear roaring differs from other involuntary ear noises, which can sometimes indicate underlying medical conditions. Tinnitus, for instance, involves hearing phantom sounds like ringing, buzzing, hissing, or roaring when no external sound is present. Unlike voluntary roaring, tinnitus is an involuntary perception of sound.
Pulsatile tinnitus is a specific type characterized by rhythmic thumping, whooshing, or throbbing sounds synchronized with one’s heartbeat. This condition can be a symptom of altered blood flow or vascular issues near the ear. Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) can also cause ear sounds, including clicking, popping, or crackling noises, along with a feeling of fullness or muffled hearing. The key distinction for voluntary ear roaring is conscious control over producing the sound, which is absent in tinnitus, pulsatile tinnitus, or ETD.
Is It Normal and When to Be Aware
The ability to voluntarily make a roaring sound in one’s ears is generally considered a normal and harmless physiological characteristic. While not everyone can do it, it is often perceived as a quirk rather than a medical concern.
However, it is advisable to seek medical attention if ear sounds become involuntary, persistent, or are accompanied by other symptoms. Consult a healthcare provider if the rumbling sensation occurs without your control, especially if it is new or bothersome. Additional symptoms warranting medical evaluation include ear pain, hearing loss, dizziness, or any sudden changes in ear sensation. These signs could indicate a different underlying condition that requires proper diagnosis and management.