Hi,
@tychobrae,
Sorry you didn't get any responses about the sound of your pulsatile tinnitus. Mine may be kind of like yours; that is, I have a high-pitched, hissing sort of ringing, plus a pulsating undercurrent that is in time with my pulse. Mine doesn't sound like whooshing, either. Right now, all I can hear is ringing. I notice the pulsating more in a very quiet environment, or when I'm trying to sleep (sigh!).
You are very wise to try to learn as much about PT as you can before going to the doctor. The truth is, most ENT's don't know a lot about pulsatile tinnitus, and don't have the time or inclination to pursue it further when you present your symptoms. If you still have a problem with your ENT after this next appointment, my suggestion would be to try a specialist, if there is one in your area. I know that in the UK it must be difficult to schedule and wait for appointments, but that might be the best course of action for you. What type of specialist? Well, some people have had success with a neurologist or neurotologist. The main thing is (as you've probably read on Whooshers.com) to never give up! Keep pushing your case with doctors until you find one who will listen and help explore your symptoms.
I don't know how many PT sufferers there actually are, but we PT sufferers are definitely in the minority, and that's why many doctors don't know what to do with us. On Whooshers.com, there is a form you can download entitled "Top Ten Pulsatile Tinnitus Tips for Doctors". It describes in detail what PT is, some of the possible causes, and suggestions for the types of diagnostic tests that could be administered. You might want to print out a copy and take it to your ENT doctor at your next appointment.
I wish you well, and totally understand what you're going through, because I'm right there with you! I still haven't found a cause for my PT, either. But I'm not ready to give up just yet, and I hope you won't, either!!
Best wishes,
Karen