What to Know About Hearing Your Heartbeat in Your Ears?

Ever hear a ‘whooshing’ sound or your heartbeat in your ears? While it may sound strange, this phenomenon, known as pulsatile tinnitus (PT), could be a sign of something more serious. Dr. Ahmed Abd Elbary took to TikTok to shed light on why this could happen and when it’s important to consult your doctor.

What is Pulsatile Tinnitus?

Unlike regular tinnitus, where you hearing sounds like ringing or buzzing with no external cause, PT involves hearing your own heartbeat or a pulsing sound in your ears. It can vary from being an occasional nuisance to an overwhelming and disruptive experience, making it difficult to focus or sleep.

Why You Should Pay Attention

While PT is often benign, Dr. Abd Elbary warns that it could point to health issues such as an aneurysm, a bulging blood vessel that can be life-threatening. Another possible cause is atherosclerosis, the narrowing of arteries. Tumors, although rare, could also lead to PT, though they are typically non-cancerous.

When to See a Doctor

If you suddenly start hearing your heartbeat or if it worsens over time, it’s a good idea to bring it up with your doctor. Dr. Abd Elbary advises that even if PT is usually harmless, seeking a professional opinion is crucial to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

Final Thoughts

In most cases, PT is harmless. However, if it’s a new symptom for you, don’t ignore it. Seeing your doctor could save you from potential complications down the road.