Hearing a Whooshing Sound in Your Ear …Here’s What It Could Mean
Keep reading to learn more.
Hearing a ringing, buzzing, or other unusual sound in your ears is not uncommon. It can happen for a number of reasons, including exposure to loud music, attending a concert, or having someone shout close to your ear.
But what if the sound doesn’t go away?
Persistent noises in the ears can sometimes be a form of tinnitus. One particular type, known as pulsatile tinnitus (PT), can sound different from the typical ringing associated with tinnitus. People with PT may hear a rhythmic whooshing or pulsing sound, often in time with their heartbeat.
Tinnitus can involve a variety of sounds, including ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whistling. These sounds may be present constantly or come and go, and their intensity can vary from one episode to another.
Why Does Pulsatile Tinnitus Happen?
People experiencing pulsatile tinnitus may notice that the sound becomes more noticeable when their heart rate increases, such as during exercise. When their heart rate returns to normal, the sensation may become less noticeable.
According to Dr Ahmed Abd Elbary, changes in blood flow can sometimes contribute to these symptoms.
He explains that blood flow can become more turbulent for a number of reasons, including conditions affecting the blood vessels such as aneurysms or atherosclerosis, which involves narrowing of the arteries.
In some cases, increased blood flow in a particular blood vessel can also be involved. Dr Elbary notes that this can occasionally be associated with a tumour.
Should You Be Concerned?
While hearing a whooshing sound in your ear does not necessarily mean that something serious is wrong, persistent or new symptoms should not simply be ignored.
Dr Elbary reassures that many of the tumours associated with these symptoms are benign. However, he recommends getting new or worsening symptoms assessed by a medical professional so that potential causes can be properly investigated.
The sensation is often linked to a change in blood flow—or to increased awareness of blood flow—through the small blood vessels around the ear.
What Can Affect Blood Flow?
Several factors can influence blood flow and potentially make pulsatile tinnitus more noticeable. These can include:
- Exercise
- Pregnancy
- An overactive thyroid
- Anaemia
In some cases, pulsatile tinnitus may resolve on its own. However, if the sound persists, becomes more noticeable, or is accompanied by other symptoms, speaking to a healthcare professional is a sensible step.
When Should You Seek Medical Advice?
A new or persistent whooshing or pulsing sound, particularly when it appears to match your heartbeat, is worth discussing with a medical professional. They can assess your symptoms and determine whether further investigation is needed.
Understanding what may be causing the sensation can provide reassurance and, where necessary, help ensure that any underlying condition is identified and treated appropriately.
If you found this information useful, share it with someone who may also be experiencing unusual sounds in their ears.
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