Introduction

Tinnitus manifests in various ways, and one distinct type is a rhythmic pulsing or “whooshing” sound in the ear, known as pulsatile tinnitus. Unlike the more common continuous ringing or buzzing, pulsatile tinnitus often synchronizes with your heartbeat. Experiencing this sound can be concerning, and at California Hearing Center, our experienced audiologists understand the importance of a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate management strategies. This page will delve into the potential reasons for a whooshing sound in your ear and how California Hearing Center can help.

What is Pulsatile Tinnitus?

Pulsatile tinnitus is the perception of a rhythmic sound in one or both ears that often coincides with your pulse. Individuals describe it as a whooshing, throbbing, or pumping sensation. The rhythmic nature of the sound is a key characteristic that differentiates it from other forms of tinnitus.

Why is a Whooshing Sound in the Ear Significant?

The pulsatile nature of this type of tinnitus often indicates an underlying vascular (blood vessel) or musculoskeletal cause. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek a professional audiological evaluation at California Hearing Center to determine the source of the sound and rule out any potentially serious conditions.

Potential Causes of a Whooshing Sound in the Ear

Several factors can contribute to pulsatile tinnitus:

• Vascular Issues: Changes in blood flow near the ear or within the blood vessels themselves are the most common causes. This can include:
  • Increased Blood Flow: Conditions like pregnancy, anemia, hyperthyroidism, or strenuous exercise can increase blood flow, making the sound of your pulse more noticeable in your ears.
  • Turbulent Blood Flow: Narrowing or kinking of blood vessels (such as the carotid artery or jugular vein) can create turbulent blood flow, generating a whooshing sound.
  • Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): Abnormal connections between arteries and veins can cause pulsatile tinnitus.
  • Benign Intracranial Hypertension (Pseudotumor Cerebri): Increased pressure within the skull can sometimes lead to pulsatile tinnitus.
• Middle Ear Problems:
  • Conductive Hearing Loss: Conditions affecting the outer or middle ear can sometimes make internal body sounds, like blood flow, more audible.
  • Middle Ear Tumors: Although rare, certain tumors in the middle ear can cause pulsatile tinnitus.
• Musculoskeletal Issues:
  • Muscle Spasms in the Middle Ear: Spasms of the tensor tympani or stapedius muscles can sometimes produce a rhythmic thumping or whooshing sound.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Elevated blood pressure can make the sound of blood flow more pronounced.
• Atherosclerosis: Hardening of the arteries can cause turbulent blood flow.

The Importance of Evaluation at California Hearing Center

If you are experiencing a whooshing sound in your ear, a comprehensive evaluation at California Hearing Center is essential. Our experienced audiologists will conduct a thorough assessment, which may include:

• Detailed Case History: We will ask about the nature of the sound, its timing in relation to your heartbeat, your medical history, and any other associated symptoms.
• Otoscopic Examination: To visualize the ear canal and eardrum.
• Comprehensive Hearing Test (Audiogram): To assess your hearing sensitivity.
• Tinnitus Evaluation: To characterize the sound you are hearing.
• Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex Testing: To evaluate middle ear function.
• Vascular Auscultation: Using a stethoscope to listen for sounds in the neck and around the ears that might indicate vascular abnormalities.
• Referral for Medical Imaging or Vascular Studies: Based on our findings, we may refer you to a physician for further medical evaluation, which could include imaging studies like MRI or CT scans, or vascular tests. It is crucial to investigate potential vascular causes of pulsatile tinnitus.

Management Options for a Whooshing Sound in the Ear at California Hearing Center

The management of pulsatile tinnitus focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Medical Treatment: If the pulsatile tinnitus is due to a medical condition like high blood pressure, anemia, or a vascular abnormality, medical treatment of that condition is the primary approach. Your physician will guide this treatment.
• Addressing Middle Ear Issues: Treatment for middle ear infections or other middle ear problems may resolve the pulsatile tinnitus.
• Medication Review: If a medication is suspected of contributing, your physician may consider adjustments.
• Sound Therapy: While masking can be challenging with a rhythmic sound, sound enrichment strategies may still provide some relief.
• Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): These therapies can help you manage your reaction to the sound and improve your coping mechanisms, even if the sound itself cannot be eliminated. Our audiologists at California Hearing Center can provide these therapies.
• Hearing Aids: If hearing loss is also present, hearing aids may help by improving auditory input and potentially making the tinnitus less noticeable. Learn more about hearing aids at California Hearing Center.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical attention if your pulsatile tinnitus is accompanied by any of the following:

• Sudden hearing loss
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Facial weakness
• Severe headache
• Vision changes

Find Relief from Whooshing Sounds: Contact California Hearing Center

If you are experiencing a persistent whooshing or pulsing sound in your ear, don’t hesitate to seek expert help. At California Hearing Center, our dedicated audiologists are committed to providing thorough evaluations and personalized management strategies for all types of tinnitus, including pulsatile tinnitus. Schedule your tinnitus evaluation at California Hearing Center today or call us at (650) 342-9449.