tinnitusexplained blog

We are often asked for help in getting rid of these pesky sounds.  This is the gist of our comments.

All tinnitus can be distressing and, as for all tinnitus, there are no universal short cut medical treatments — but our usual experience is that pulsing head noises can be relieved.  Sometimes the sensation can be at heartbeat pace or a multiple of it — even to the point of a sort of irritating ticking sound.  

The proximity of major blood vessels to the hearing mechanism appears to cause a physical transmission related to pressure of blood flow.  This can be exacerbated by any irregularity in blood flow.  Experience has shown that pulsating tinnitus can also be influenced by changes in throat, neck and head posture and any external pressure on the area.  The nature of constant tinnitus can also sometimes be influenced by posture and external pressure changes including atmospheric pressure. Occasionally irrgularities are produced by the electrical circuits in the inner ear mechanism.

Whatever the cause, practical experience has also shown that self-treatment can give good results.  Even a simple change in sleeping position or number and composition of pillows can be effective.  Pulsatile problems are sometimes more prevalent with age and are more evident when we are unwell.  It is likely that the inevitable wear and tear on the upper vertebrae may cause a shortening of the neck such that the disposition of blood vessels brings them closer to the hearing system.  A prime suspect is the main artery, passing about 6 mm from the cochlea.  At the same time the muscles maintaining the neck position and supporting the head can become weak, further worsening the situation.    

Correction of this physical situation and reduction or even elimination of pulsatile tinnitus from this cause lies in a combination of 1) relaxation and 2) strengthening the neck muscles.  Typically the Alexander Technique semi-supine position with simple gentle head roll exercises can achieve this.  A HUSH leaflet explains this procedure.  

Personal experience, supported by feedback from many others, confirms that it can be very effective in virtually eliminating pulsatile tinnitus from this source and is helpful for all tinnitus.  It is important to maintain good posture and muscle tone especially of the head, shoulders and neck.  As ever, care must be taken to habitually de-stress ALL of parts of the body at all times in addition to any specific training sessions.