Your symptoms may be tinnitus — a thumping, ringing, or beating noise in the ear which is not uncommon. Tinnitus may be the result of age-related hearing loss or an ear injury or it may be an indication of a disease of your circulatory system. Hypertension and factors that increase blood pressure, such as stress, alcohol and caffeine, can make the sound more noticeable.
An ideal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg, but if your blood pressure exceeds 140/90 mm Hg you may need treatment to bring it down. It is important for you to see your physician so he/she can evaluate your symptoms and offer suggestions on lowering your blood pressure.
Learn more in the Everyday Health Hypertension Center.
Last Updated: 8/13/2007