Ear rumbling refers to perceiving a low-frequency sound or vibration within the ear. It is a common and often harmless phenomenon. It can be voluntary, where some individuals intentionally produce the sound, or involuntary, occurring without conscious control. While unusual, this internal sound is frequently a normal physiological response.
Common Everyday Causes
The most common reason for ear rumbling involves the tensor tympani muscle, a small muscle located in the middle ear. This muscle connects to the malleus, a tiny bone that transmits sound vibrations. Its primary role is to dampen loud sounds, such as those generated by chewing, yawning, or shouting, by pulling the malleus away from the eardrum.
The contraction of this muscle causes the rumbling sensation. Some individuals can voluntarily control this contraction, producing the sound on command; this ability is considered a normal variation. Involuntary contractions, often called myoclonus, can also occur, sometimes triggered by activities like yawning or chewing.
Another common cause of internal ear sounds are related to the function of the Eustachian tubes. These narrow tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat, equalizing pressure and draining fluid. Their opening and closing, which happens during actions like yawning, swallowing, or changes in altitude, can produce popping or crackling sounds. This can sometimes be perceived as a rumbling or muffled sensation.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Less commonly, persistent or problematic ear rumbling can point to underlying medical conditions. Middle Ear Myoclonus (MEM) involves involuntary spasms of the tensor tympani or stapedius muscles in the middle ear. These spasms can result in sounds including clicking, thumping, or a continuous rumbling sensation, and may be triggered by sounds, head position changes, or swallowing. MEM can sometimes lead to additional symptoms like ear fullness, muffled hearing, or dizziness.
Pulsatile tinnitus is another condition that can manifest as a low rumble, often synchronized with one’s heartbeat. Unlike other forms of tinnitus, which are perceived only by the individual, pulsatile tinnitus can sometimes be heard by a doctor using a stethoscope. This type of rumbling is linked to vascular issues, such as irregular blood flow near the ear, narrowing of blood vessels (atherosclerosis), or conditions that increase blood flow like high blood pressure or anemia.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, affecting the jaw joint near the ear, can also lead to various ear symptoms, including a rumbling sensation. Issues with the TMJ can cause pain that radiates to the ear, a feeling of fullness, or even clicking and popping sounds with jaw movement. The close proximity of the jaw joint to the ear structures means that inflammation or muscle strain in this area can impact auditory sensations.
Objective tinnitus is a rare form of tinnitus where the sound generated within the body, including rumbling, is audible to others. This can be due to a physical source, such as abnormal blood vessel activity or muscle spasms within the ear or soft palate. While most tinnitus is subjective (heard only by the individual), objective tinnitus warrants further evaluation to identify the cause.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While occasional ear rumbling is often harmless, certain symptoms warrant a consultation with a healthcare professional, such as an audiologist or an ENT specialist. If the rumbling sensation is persistent, increases in intensity, or becomes significantly bothersome, medical evaluation is recommended, especially if it interferes with daily activities like sleep or concentration.
Seek professional advice if the rumbling is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These include ear pain, dizziness or vertigo, hearing loss, other forms of tinnitus like ringing, ear discharge, or facial weakness. If the rumbling begins following a head injury or exposure to extremely loud noise, it is important to get it checked to rule out any underlying issues.