New Onset of Constant Bilateral Pulsatile Tinnitus and Ongoing Diagnostic Workup

[Doug R.]

I developed constant bilateral pulsatile tinnitus in both ears in the middle of July 2025. I had already been living with regular bilateral tinnitus for decades, which sounds like a conch shell. From what I've heard, bilateral pulsatile tinnitus is rare.

I'm from Ontario, Canada, and I went to an ENT specialist in Toronto. He gave me a hearing test, did an ear pressure test, examined my ears with a microscope, and scheduled me for a CT scan, which I had about a week ago.

I don't have a family doctor, so I have to go through a local clinic, which can be a challenge at times. The pulsatile tinnitus I experience is equal in sound and intensity in both ears. Two doctors who are not specialists have told me it could be due to clogged carotid arteries or deviated ear bones, but they are not sure. I'm now waiting for the results of the CT.

 

[net net]

Hope you get answers. I'm in the same boat, waiting for my CT scan results. My GP was good once I finally found one who really listened, but he didn't know much about tinnitus. I've tried self-help methods. Vitamin B12 was mentioned, as a low level can cause tinnitus, so I got permission to take some since my blood test was borderline.

I've read blogs and discussions from people who suffer with tinnitus. Habituation seems to help a lot, along with masking and distraction. If the results come back fine and there's no clear reason for the tinnitus being so severe, I guess I'll just have to keep going with self-help.

Good luck with your results!