Pulsatile tinnitus is a distinct type of sound perception characterized by a rhythmic, whooshing, or throbbing noise in the ear that often synchronizes with an individual’s heartbeat. When someone is sick, this symptom can sometimes emerge.
Understanding Pulsatile Tinnitus
This condition differs from more common forms of tinnitus, which usually manifest as a constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound without any external source. While general tinnitus is often subjective, pulsatile tinnitus can sometimes be objective, where a medical professional might also detect the sound. Pulsatile tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease itself, and typically indicates a change in blood flow or the perception of it near the ear.
Why Sickness Can Trigger Pulsatile Tinnitus
Sickness can lead to pulsatile tinnitus through several physiological mechanisms that alter blood flow dynamics or sound perception within the body. When the body fights an infection, the immune response often involves increased inflammation and elevated body temperature, such as a fever. This systemic inflammation can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased blood flow and a more turbulent, audible flow, particularly in vessels close to the ears.
Changes in blood pressure, even temporary ones, can also play a role. Illnesses can sometimes cause fluctuations in blood pressure, and elevated pressure increases the force of blood against vessel walls, making the sound of blood flow more pronounced and detectable. Furthermore, common illnesses like colds, flu, and sinus infections often cause congestion in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. This congestion can lead to pressure imbalances in the middle ear or fluid buildup, amplifying internal body sounds, including the sound of blood circulation. In some instances, the temporary conductive hearing loss associated with fluid in the middle ear or a blocked Eustachian tube can make a person more aware of their internal body noises, including blood flow.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While pulsatile tinnitus during sickness often resolves as the illness subsides, certain signs warrant prompt medical evaluation. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if the pulsatile tinnitus persists beyond the duration of the illness, suggesting it may not be directly linked to the temporary sickness. A worsening intensity of the sound or its occurrence in only one ear are also significant concerns that require professional assessment.
Accompanying symptoms such as dizziness, changes in vision, severe pain, or any neurological signs like weakness or numbness, indicate a need for immediate medical attention. Although many causes of pulsatile tinnitus are benign, it can occasionally signal more serious underlying conditions, including vascular issues or other medical disorders. Seeking timely medical advice helps to rule out these possibilities and ensures appropriate management.
Managing Pulsatile Tinnitus While Sick
Managing pulsatile tinnitus when sick primarily focuses on alleviating symptoms of the underlying illness and supporting the body’s recovery. Adequate rest is foundational, allowing the body to conserve energy and recover more effectively. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids can help thin mucus and support overall physiological function.
Managing fever, if present, through appropriate over-the-counter medications can reduce inflammation and blood flow changes that might contribute to the sound. If congestion is a factor, using over-the-counter decongestants may help clear nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, potentially reducing ear pressure and the perception of internal sounds. Avoiding aggravating factors such as excessive noise or stress can also provide relief. In most cases, pulsatile tinnitus associated with temporary illnesses resolves naturally as the sickness passes and the body returns to its normal state.