Hearing your heartbeat in your ear is commonly due to a condition called pulsatile tinnitus. It happens when the blood flow near your ear or head produces a rhythmic sound that matches your heartbeat. This can occur because of turbulent blood flow in blood vessels close to the middle or inner ear. Common causes include:
- Increased blood flow or pressure near the ear, such as from high blood pressure.
- Changes or abnormalities in blood vessels, including narrowing of arteries (atherosclerosis), aneurysms, or arteriovenous malformations.
- Conductive hearing loss that amplifies internal bodily sounds.
- Thinning or missing bone near the ear that allows you to hear internal blood flow.
- Other conditions like anemia, thyroid problems, or head and neck tumors.
Usually, pulsatile tinnitus is not dangerous but if the sound persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to see a healthcare provider for evaluation and possible tests like hearing exams or imaging scans to identify any underlying cause.
