Pulsatile tinnitus digital illustration

Pulsatile tinnitus Save


ICD-10 code: H93.A

Chapter: Diseases of the ear and mastoid process

Pulsatile Tinnitus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

If you're hearing a rhythmic sound in your ear that beats in time with your heartbeat, you may be experiencing pulsatile tinnitus. This type of tinnitus differs from the more common continuous ringing in the ears and can be a sign of an underlying medical issue.

  1. Causes: Pulsatile tinnitus is caused by blood vessels near the ear that are either too narrow or too wide. This can result in turbulent blood flow that produces a pulsing sound. Other causes of pulsatile tinnitus can include high blood pressure, anemia, and thyroid disorders.
  2. Symptoms: The main symptom of pulsatile tinnitus is the pulsing sound that you hear in your ear. This sound may come and go or be constant. You may also experience other symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and difficulty sleeping.
  3. Treatment: The treatment for pulsatile tinnitus depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is related to a medical condition, treating that condition may alleviate the tinnitus. Other treatments may include medication, sound therapy, or surgery to repair the blood vessels near the ear.

If you're experiencing pulsatile tinnitus, it's important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause. In some cases, pulsatile tinnitus can be a sign of a serious medical condition, so it's important to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

In addition to medical treatment, there are some things you can do to manage your symptoms. These include avoiding loud noises, reducing your caffeine and alcohol intake, and practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga.

Overall, pulsatile tinnitus can be a frustrating and disruptive condition, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, it can be managed effectively. If you're experiencing pulsatile tinnitus, don't hesitate to seek medical attention.