Have you ever laid in bed, your head resting comfortably on your pillow, only to be suddenly aware of the steady thudding of your own heartbeat? It’s a common experience that many people encounter, but what exactly causes this phenomenon?
After a long, tiring day, there’s nothing quite like slipping into bed, closing your eyes, and allowing your body to unwind. As you roll onto your side and settle in, however, you might notice a rhythmic thumping sound emanating from within your own head. If this has ever happened to you, rest assured—you’re not alone! Many individuals experience this strange sensation, but what lies behind it? And more importantly, should you be worried?
Why Can You Hear Your Heartbeat When Lying on Your Side?
The first thing to understand is that hearing your pulse while lying on your side is completely normal. This phenomenon occurs to a multitude of people, and in most cases, it isn’t a cause for concern.
US surgeon Dr. Anthony Youn recently addressed this topic in a TikTok video, comparing the sensation to having the bass turned up too loud in your pillow. He explained, “If, every once in a while, you’re lying on your side and you hear your heart beating, it’s most likely your carotid artery basically sitting against your pillow.”
The carotid arteries, which are among the body’s major blood vessels, run along both sides of the neck and pass in close proximity to the ears. These arteries play a crucial role in delivering oxygen-rich blood to the head, face, and neck, ensuring that vital organs function optimally.
When you rest on your side, one of these carotid arteries may press against your pillow, amplifying the sound of your pulse. Thus, the steady thumping you hear is simply the sound of blood flowing through the artery, doing exactly what it’s supposed to—keeping you alive and well. In most cases, this is completely normal and certainly nothing to worry about.
Should I Be Concerned About Hearing My Heartbeat in My Ears?
While hearing your heartbeat occasionally while lying on your side is typically harmless, Dr. Youn cautions that constantly hearing it—whether lying down, standing, or throughout the day—could be indicative of a condition known as pulsatile tinnitus.
According to Tinnitus UK, pulsatile tinnitus is characterized by a “rhythmical noise” heard in either one or both ears, often synchronized with the rhythm of your heartbeat. While it can be a mild annoyance, it may also signal an underlying health issue.
Dr. Youn reassures that while pulsatile tinnitus is “usually benign,” there are instances where it could indicate something more serious. Because of this potential risk, he advises consulting a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms.
Pulsatile tinnitus can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which relate to changes in blood flow near the ears. Some possible causes include:
- Increased blood pressure
- Pregnancy
- Anemia
- Hyperthyroidism
- Head and neck tumors
According to Harvard Health, “most of the time, pulsatile tinnitus is nothing to worry about.” However, if your symptoms persist, become bothersome, or are accompanied by other health changes, it’s always best to consult your doctor for peace of mind.