Pulsating Feeling in Ear
Hello everyone, I'm a 27-year-old woman and I've recently experienced a peculiar sensation in my left ear. Approximately three weeks ago, I began to notice a rhythmic bouncing feeling accompanied by a sound that seems to resonate inside my ear. My AirPods are a fixture in my daily routine, especially for work-related calls, and this sensation only occurs when I have them in. After taking a five-day hiatus from using them, I returned to my AirPods today, and the sensation reappeared. I have not encountered any accompanying symptoms nor have I ever dealt with ringing in my ears or related issues before. I am curious if this could indicate an underlying injury and would like to know the potential causes of this sensation. It's worth mentioning that I am not on any medications and have not made any significant changes to my lifestyle. Additionally, I usually avoid listening to loud music or audio, and overall, my hearing remains unaffected.
Answers (1)
2/18/2026, 12:20:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a pulsating sensation in your ear, which can be concerning but may not necessarily indicate a serious issue. This sensation, especially if it occurs predominantly when using your AirPods, could be related to a few factors, such as earwax buildup, pressure changes, or even the way the earbuds fit in your ear.
Explanation
The rhythmic "bouncing" feeling and accompanying sound you described may be related to how the AirPods fit in your ear or possibly how they create sound waves that resonate. Here are some potential causes:
- Earwax Buildup: This can block the ear canal and cause unusual sensations.
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Changes in pressure while using earbuds may lead to a feeling of fullness or pulsation.
- Muscle Spasms: Tiny muscles in the ear can spasm, creating a pulsating sensation.
- Allergies or Sinus Issues: Even mild allergies can cause sensations in the ear.
Next Steps
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Ear Hygiene: Ensure that your ears are clean but avoid using cotton swabs deep inside the ear canal, as this can push wax further in. A gentle rinse in the shower can help.
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Limit Earbud Use: Given that the sensation occurs with your AirPods, try taking a break from them for a longer period to see if the symptoms resolve. Use alternative headphones or speakers when you can.
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Observe Symptoms: Keep a log of this sensation—note when it occurs, how long it lasts, and any changes in sound. This may help in identifying triggers.
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Hydration and Nasal Health: Staying hydrated and ensuring your nasal passages are clear (using saline sprays if necessary) can help with any pressure-related issues.
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Consult if Persistent: If the sensation persists despite changes in earbud use or you notice new symptoms like pain, hearing loss, or persistent ringing, consider discussing with a healthcare professional.
Taking these steps can help you manage the situation effectively while assessing if further evaluation is needed. If you have more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask!
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