Pulsatile tinnitus is one form of tinnitus that manifests itself as a pulsating or thumping sound that beats in sync with your pulse. It is as if you can hear your heart beat in your ear. It is very different from regular tinnitus although it is possible to have both. People who have suffered from both forms of tinnitus have stated that the pulsatile tinnitus causes the most discomfort.
Pulsatile tinnitus is a symptom of an underlying problem in your body rather than a disease. Therefore, if you are experiencing these pulsating sounds, it is important to have a complete evaluation by your physician to determine the cause in order for him to prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Generally, pulsatile tinnitus is the result of some type of vascular problem. Narrowing of the arteries and a buildup of cholesterol can result in restricting the blood flow thus creating a turbulence which can be heard. Hypertension only makes matters worse. If the middle ear has a chronic infection, the increased blood flow may be heard. A benign tumor, a glomous, located in or below the ear is also called a vascular tumor. Surgery is required to remove this tumor to eliminate the pulsating sound that the patient experiences.
These are just a few of the causes of pulsatile tinnitus. Only your physician can determine the exact cause, and to rule out any serious problems. For more information, visit http://www.PulsatileTinnitus.org/