Pulsatile Tinnitus Getting Worse: MRI and CT Revealed Nothing

I'm 46 years old and have been dealing with pulsatile tinnitus for quite some time. I was referred to an ENT specialist and finally got an appointment 18 months later. During the examination, I was found to have a perforated eardrum on my left side and was diagnosed with hearing loss in both ears. I was sent for MRI and CT scans, but neither revealed anything that might be causing the pulsatile tinnitus.

I believe the condition is getting worse, and I was informed that hearing aids might help improve the pulsatile tinnitus. However, the waiting list on the NHS is over 10 months, so I likely won't receive them until next year.

In my job, I use a computer and need to wear a headset for calls and communicating with my team. However, the ENT specialist advised me to avoid using a headset where possible. As a result, I've been listening through the speakers on my computer. I'm currently working from home with a temporary reasonable adjustment, as there are very few private spaces available in the office. However, I know they will soon want me back in the office, and I'm unsure how to address this issue.

I have two headsets—one with noise-canceling features and the other with a single-sided earpiece—but, again, the ENT specialist advised against wearing them. This puts me in a difficult position because I can't use my computer speakers in an office environment.

I use white noise apps on my phone to help with the distraction when it's really quiet.

The volume of the pulsatile tinnitus is getting increasingly worse, and it's starting to affect my concentration significantly.

Does anyone have any advice on how to manage or neutralize it? Thanks in advance.

 

Hi @Louise_M_78. I'm sorry you're going through this—it sounds awful. Normally, pulsatile tinnitus is related to an organic cause. Did they suggest it could be related to hearing damage and that the tone of your tinnitus is causing this, or is it literally a thumping beat? A private consultation might be worth exploring other possible causes, such as middle ear myoclonus. Professor Bance is the go-to expert for this.

As I understand it, pulsatile tinnitus is not usually connected to hearing loss, so I'm unsure if hearing aids are relevant in this case. It sounds like you may have been dismissed, which, unfortunately, doesn't surprise me.

 

Get a letter from the ENT specialist advising you against using headphones and show it to your workplace's HR department.