Audiology/Otolaryngology/pounding in ear

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 7/11/2009


Question
Hello - I have been experiencing a strange dizzy feeling off and on for the past two weeks. I also have a heart beat sound in my ears that I hear when I start to get hot. I have been congested for the same time period but am allergic to decongestants. Do you think my symptoms are caused by sinus congestion? I have had surgery near my ear to repair my facial nerve but that was 11 years ago. Any help is greatly appreciated! Thank you!

Answer
Hi Elizabeth,

Pulsatile - or heartbeat-like, tinnitus is usually due to a circulatory disturbance. More often than not, this particular tinnitus condition is derived from the blood vessels located within the neck or head and occurs when the blood flow in the neck or head is disturbed or interrupted. This could also account for your dizziness.

It is highly advisable to consult with a physician with expertise in circulatory problems as soon as possible.

Hope this helps.
Dr. Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

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Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.

Expertise

I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.

Experience

I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.

Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, - American Speech Language Hearing Association, - Hearing Loss Association of America

Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000. Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology) Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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