Usually Pulsatile Tinnitus originates due to some form of arterial turbulence, which may manifest itself as a plaque or spasm near the neck or head region. This condition produces some sound when blood flows.  Per chance, if the blood vessels narrow or the flow of blood increases, the buzz becomes more prominent.  Hence, hypertension makes the symptoms worse.

Although it is different from that tinnitus which is accompanied by a continuous sound, it is not unlikely that you may suffer from both simultaneously. People who suffer from the two kinds of buzzes simultaneously admit that the discontinuous Pulsatile Tinnitus is the more annoying of the two.

Like other forms of tinnitus, Pulsatile Tinnitus is not a malady by itself. It’s just a sign of some other, probably bigger problem. Since it is generally caused due to some disruption in blood flow, it is advisable to visit a doctor when you are symptomatic. Since most of the causes of Pulsatile Tinnitus are treatable, pulsatile tinnitus is curable too.

Some common causes for Pulsatile Tinnitus are:

Atherosclerosis (Atherosclerotic Carotid Artery Disease) – If cholesterol accumulates along the arterial wall, then the artery is narrowed, due to which there is an increase in pressure and turbulence during blood flow. This produces the felt sound.

Benign Intracranial Hypertension (BIH) – If the pressure in the fluids surrounding the brain increases, a similar situation may arise. BIH is accompanied with hearing debilitation and dizziness as well.  It is customarily seen in young, overweight females. Losing some weight helps in overcoming it.
Infection or inflammation in middle ear: This is also referred to as middle ear effusion. The sound heard is that of increased blood flow. It might also cause hearing impairment and pain. It can be treated using antibiotics and decongestants, or in the worst case, surgery.

Hypertension – Hypertension may be a possible reason for Pulsatile Tinnitus too. Medicines for hypertension also treat this type of Pulsatile Tinnitus.

Glomous Tumor – A benign tumor situated within the ear or just below it (also known as vascular tumor) may be the root of the problem. Surgery may be the only remedy feasible.

Venous hum – Generally anemic, people with thyroid problems or pregnant woman fall prey to this Pulsatile Tinnitus. Increased blood flow through jugular vein, accounts for the quivering sound percepted. Medicines for the original problem help in removing the sensation.

Apart from the ones mentioned above, several causes of Pulsatile Tinnitus exist. But the underlying advice is that Pulsatile Tinnitus should not be taken casually. It may be an indication of a bigger disease. Hence consult a doctor the next time you hear sound in your ears. They may very well be a siren.

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