Pulsatile tinnitus is a unique type of tinnitus in which individuals hear rhythmic sounds, often described as a whooshing or pulsing noise that synchronizes with their heartbeat. Unlike traditional tinnitus, which manifests as constant ringing, pulsatile tinnitus is frequently linked to blood flow abnormalities.
One lesser-known but significant cause is anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia, which can disrupt normal blood circulation. Understanding the relationship between anemia and pulsatile tinnitus helps provide insights into the proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of this condition.
Diagnosing Pulsatile Tinnitus in North Carolina
First, it’s important to make sure that anemia is actually the cause of your pulsatile tinnitus since there are a whole host of other conditions that could also be responsible. At Neurosciences & Spine Center, our highly experienced neurologists and neurosurgeons are adept at determining the root cause of your tinnitus by checking for sounds in the neck and skull that sync with your pulse. They may recommend hearing tests or imaging studies like angiography, MRI, or CT scans to assess the condition further.
What Causes Anemia?
Anemia occurs when there is a deficiency of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. The most common cause of anemia is a lack of iron (iron-deficiency anemia), which is a necessary building block for hemoglobin creation. Low iron levels can come from inadequate dietary intake, poor absorption of iron, or chronic blood loss, such as from menstruation or gastrointestinal conditions.
Besides low iron levels, other causes of anemia include:
- Vitamin deficiencies (like B12 or folate)
- Chronic diseases that interfere with red blood cell production
- Bone marrow disorders
- Genetic conditions like sickle cell anemia
In all cases of anemia, the heart is pumping harder to deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to the body. This change in blood flow is often audible as pulsatile tinnitus.
Treating Pulsatile Tinnitus Related to Anemia
If you are experiencing pulsatile tinnitus and have other symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or pale skin, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. We will likely recommend blood tests to check for anemia and imaging studies to evaluate blood flow patterns around the ear.
Treatment Options
Treating anemia-induced pulsatile tinnitus focuses on addressing the underlying cause:
- Iron supplements: For those with iron-deficiency anemia, iron supplements can help restore red blood cell counts and normalize blood flow, potentially alleviating pulsatile tinnitus.
- Dietary adjustments: Incorporating iron-rich foods like leafy greens, red meat, beans, and fortified cereals into your diet can help maintain healthy iron levels and prevent further complications.
- Managing heart workload: Medications or lifestyle changes that reduce the heart’s workload may decrease the intensity of the tinnitus. Controlling blood pressure and ensuring proper oxygenation through treatments like iron therapy can reduce blood flow turbulence, lessening the perception of rhythmic sounds.
Pulsatile Tinnitus Relief
Addressing anemia is crucial for long-term relief. In the meantime, you may be able to reduce the effects of pulsatile tinnitus through relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises or with noise-masking devices that provide a soothing background sound.
Book an Appointment
At the Neurosciences & Spine Center, our experts are here to help diagnose and treat conditions like pulsatile tinnitus, ensuring you receive the best care tailored to your needs. Contact us today to set up your initial appointment!
