New to Pulsatile Tinnitus

[MadieRose95]

Hello!
I've been having issues with a wooshing/pulsating sound in my right ear since about April of this year.
I've been to an ENT and he mentioned getting a CT of my temple and right side with contrast but then decided that because I'm only 22 that he didn't want to subject me to the radiation.

I first went to him because I have a huge lump in the right side of my neck that also pulsates and he tells me it's my carotid artery and that it's enlarged because I'm thin. I don't know if I should take him seriously at this point. The whooshing goes away when I push on my artery but it's so loud when I'm trying to relax or sleep and it's quite unsettling. I'm worried it's an aneurysm or a tumour.

I don't really know what could have caused it as I have never experienced it until this year and the only things I can think of that could be possible causes is that I hit my head on the right temple in April and got a concussion from that. I have also been quite sick this year as my immune system has been low and I've had enlarged lymph nodes.

I'm just scared and want to know what's wrong. I have a holiday coming up in a couple weeks and I'm scared to fly because my right ear has been getting blocked a lot and popping recently and I'm scared that the high altitude will do something to the artery. I hope someone on here will tell me I'm just being paranoid.

Thanks Madie!

 

[Scared111]

opt for a mri to get it checked out.

 

[Karen]

Hi, Madie,

I don't think you need to worry, because most causes of pulsatile tinnitus are not dangerous, but for peace of mind it's still a good idea to get some tests. I agree with Scared 111 that an MRI is a good idea, because it does not involve radiation. In addition to an MRI, you can also ask to have an MRA and MRV at the same time. (MRA - arteries; MRV - veins). That way, you will know if there is anything worth further checking by a doctor. Since you have had swollen lymph nodes, I am wondering if the lump is just another swollen lymph node.

I have pulsatile tinnitus in my right ear, too, and I know how maddening it can be. I've had it for 7 years now; no cause was found after testing, so I have been living with it. Mine has settled down a lot since the beginning, and I no longer have that feeling of fullness/pressure that I had that first year.

Please let us know what you decide to do, and I'd love to hear about the results of your tests.

Take care, don't worry, and get checked out!

Best wishes,
Karen