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Acoustic neuroma

The primary (vestibular) nerve connecting your inner ear to your brain can develop an acoustic neuroma. It also comprehends that vestibular schwannoma is a noncancerous growth that typically grows slowly. 

As a result of pressure from an acoustic neuroma, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and instability may result from branches of this nerve that directly affect your balance and hearing.

An acoustic neuroma’s symptoms

Initially, an acoustic neuroma might not show any observable symptoms.

Any symptoms typically appear gradually and frequently involve:

  • Loss of hearing that usually only affects one ear
  • Being able to hear internal body noises (tinnitus)
  • An impression that you are whirling or moving (vertigo)

Occasionally, a large acoustic neuroma can also lead to:

  • Chronic headaches
  • Momentary double vision or impaired vision
  • Liability, numbness, or pain on one side of the face
  • On one side of the body, ataxia refers to coordination issues with the limbs
  • A hoarse voice or swallowing issues
    An acoustic neuroma's symptoms

    Complications

    An acoustic neuroma may cause a sort of endless complications, including:

    • Loss of hearing
    • Numbness and weakness in the face
    • Balance Difficulties
    • Tingling in your ear

    Large tumors may present on your brainstem, preventing the normal flow of fluid between your brain and spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid). In this circumstance, fluid buildup in your head may increase internal skull pressure.

    Getting medical aid 

    If the doctor thinks you could have an acoustic neuroma, refer to a hospital or clinic for further tests, such as:

    • Hearing tests to screen for hearing impairments and identify whether a problem with your nerves causes them
    • An MRI scan creates an intricate image of the inside of your head using radio waves and powerful magnetic fields
    • A CT scan utilizes a series of X-rays to create a detailed picture of the inside of your head

    Treatments for acoustic neuromas

    Relying on the size and location of your tumor, its rate of growth, and your general health, you have various treatment choices for an acoustic neuroma.

    The main options are:

    • Monitoring the tumor
    • Brain surgery
    • Stereotactic radiosurgery 

    All these options carry some risks. Please speak to your specialist about the best option for you and the benefits and dangers they possess.

    Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
    Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022