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Has anyone experience pulsatile tinnitus from chemo?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Sacramento Area, CA

I first noticed it in the middle of chemo and it went away a lot but not all the way. Now it has come back so intense since I’m now anemic. I’m just curious how common it is if anybody else still with this. It is so freaking annoying and hard to focus while hearing this pounding sound in your ear.

July 15
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Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

Chemo can affect your hearing.

July 23
A MyBCTeam Member

Please have an expert test your hearing. I lost 40% of my hearing due to chemotherapy drugs.
Best wishes.

July 23
A MyBCTeam Member

Yes, and the drugs that cause hair loss can also cause you to lose the little inner hair cells in your ears that are needed for hearing (the same ones they tell you get damaged by loud noises). Since they do not regenerate, that hearing loss is also something many chemo patients find that they have to deal with. We are definitely not alone! Hugs!

July 16
MyBCTeam

That pounding sound in your ear is absolutely maddening — you're not alone in this! Tinnitus (ringing or pulsing sounds in the ears) is a known side effect of chemotherapy, and other MyBCTeam members have reported experiencing it during and after treatment.

One MyBCTeam member mentioned developing tinnitus in both ears Show Full Answer

That pounding sound in your ear is absolutely maddening — you're not alone in this! Tinnitus (ringing or pulsing sounds in the ears) is a known side effect of chemotherapy, and other MyBCTeam members have reported experiencing it during and after treatment.

One MyBCTeam member mentioned developing tinnitus in both ears that started during chemo treatments, so it's definitely something others have dealt with. The connection to anemia makes sense, as reduced blood flow and oxygen levels can intensify that pulsing sensation in your ears. Here are some things worth discussing with your care team:

- Let your oncologist know the tinnitus has returned and intensified — especially linked to your anemia
- Ask about managing your anemia, as treating it may help reduce the tinnitus
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen both tinnitus and fatigue
- Prioritize rest and stress reduction, as fatigue and stress can amplify symptoms

Please don't just push through this — bring it up at your next appointment so your team can help find relief!

July 15
A MyBCTeam Member

Hi. I'm sorry to hear about ur hearing. I'm wondering if mine could be caused by the chemo drug. Also..I'm having trouble hearing. Too...I should go get it checked..
.Sandy

July 23

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