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You’ve heard about tinnitus— noises such as ringing, buzzing, and/or roaring in the ear? Well, have you heard about pulsatile tinnitus? This is tinnitus which is perceived as a rhythmic pulsing, thumping, or whooshing sound which often matches your heartbeat. Often, this type of tinnitus is related to blood flow. There are many explanations for pulsatile tinnitus (e.g. kinked arteries, build-up of deposits along arteries, head/neck tumors, superior semicircular canal dehiscence, increased pressure in head, blood vessels which are close to the inner ear, high blood pressure, etc.) but seldom is the problem serious. Imaging tests, such as CT or MRI scans, may be needed to determine the underlying cause of the tinnitus. Common remediation methods include medication and/or surgery.

It is important for you to describe exactly how your tinnitus sounds, including any noticeable rhythm, so that your audiologist is able to refer you to the appropriate professional when necessary. Tinnitus, while frequently related to problems in the auditory system, can indicate other issues and must be explored properly.

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