Pulsatile tinnitus

In the case of vascular pulsatile tinnitus complaints such as high blood pressure, vascular malformations, arteriosclerosis or vascular tumours can cause an abnormal blood flow that results in pulsating noises in the ear. ENT disorders can also interfere with sound conduction and cause pulsatile tinnitus. In addition to pulsating noises in the ears, patients can also suffer headaches, sinus problems, vision problems, etc.  

Pulsatile tinnitus has a significant impact on the quality of life of patients. However, treatment options are available to alleviate these symptoms. Diagnosis of this very particular pathology must be established by specialists who carry out the appropriate examinations. For optimal care, within the H.U.B the Erasmus Hospital proposes a joint consultation with a neurologist and ENT specialist who together can quickly determine whether it is indeed a pulsating tinnitus and propose a personalised treatment plan accordingly. Depending on the pathology’s underlying cause a number of options can be proposed, including risk factor management (in case of high blood pressure for example); medication; adoption of a healthy lifestyle; stress management; sound therapy to help reduce the perception of the pulsating tinnitus; in certain cases treatment of the vascular problem causing the tinnitus. This unique association of two specialists at a single consultation coupled with close multidisciplinary cooperation  permits more effective intervention to rapidly improve the quality of life of patients.