Summary about Disease
Pulsatile tinnitus is a type of tinnitus characterized by the perception of a rhythmic pulsing, throbbing, or whooshing sound in one or both ears. Unlike regular tinnitus, which is often a constant ringing or buzzing, pulsatile tinnitus usually corresponds to the individual's heartbeat. It often indicates an underlying vascular (blood vessel) issue or, less commonly, a muscular cause.
Symptoms
Perception of rhythmic pulsing, throbbing, or whooshing sounds in one or both ears.
The sound often synchronizes with the heartbeat.
The sound may be constant or intermittent.
Potential associated symptoms include hearing loss, dizziness, and headaches (depending on the underlying cause).
Causes
Pulsatile tinnitus has many potential causes, including:
Vascular abnormalities: Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), carotid artery stenosis, dural arteriovenous fistulas, venous sinus stenosis, aneurysm.
Increased blood flow: Pregnancy, hyperthyroidism, anemia, exercise.
Benign Intracranial Hypertension (BIH): Increased pressure inside the skull.
Middle ear tumors: Glomus tumors.
Muscular causes: Spasms of middle ear muscles (myoclonus).
Other: High blood pressure.
Medicine Used
The medications used for pulsatile tinnitus depend entirely on the underlying cause. There is no single medication to treat pulsatile tinnitus itself. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying condition.
Medications to lower blood pressure: If high blood pressure is contributing.
Medications for hyperthyroidism: If thyroid issues are causing the increase in blood flow.
Medications for anemia: Iron supplements may be prescribed.
Acetazolamide or topiramate: For idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH).
Surgery or interventional radiology: To correct vascular abnormalities.
Is Communicable
Pulsatile tinnitus is not communicable. It is not an infection or condition that can be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Precautions depend on the underlying cause. General recommendations include:
Seeking medical evaluation: Immediate medical attention is important to identify and address the underlying cause.
Managing Blood Pressure: Maintain a healthy blood pressure through diet and exercise.
Avoiding Excessive Noise: Protect your hearing.
Managing stress: Can alleviate some symptoms.
How long does an outbreak last?
Pulsatile tinnitus doesn't have "outbreaks" in the sense of an infectious disease. Its duration depends entirely on the underlying cause and its treatment. It might be temporary (e.g., during pregnancy) or chronic (e.g., with vascular malformations) if not addressed.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Medical history and physical exam: Detailed information about symptoms, medical history, and medications.
Hearing test (audiogram): To assess hearing.
Imaging studies: MRI, CT scan, or angiography to visualize blood vessels and other structures.
Blood tests: To check for anemia, thyroid problems, and other conditions.
Auscultation: Listening to the head and neck with a stethoscope to identify bruits (abnormal sounds of blood flow).
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of pulsatile tinnitus can be:
Sudden: May indicate vascular event or rapid change.
Gradual: Develop slowly over time, potentially associated with progressive conditions.
Intermittent: May come and go, related to fluctuations in blood pressure or other factors. The duration of each episode varies.
Important Considerations
Pulsatile tinnitus should be evaluated by a medical professional to identify the underlying cause.
The underlying cause of pulsatile tinnitus can be serious.
Self-treating is not recommended.
Treatment options depend entirely on the diagnosis.
Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes.