Regain Your Hearing, Restore Your Balance

Acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor that grows on the vestibulocochlear nerve, affecting hearing and balance by compressing the nerve.

Common early symptoms include one-sided hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), dizziness, and balance problems.

No, treatment options include observation, radiation therapy (Gamma Knife or CyberKnife), and surgical removal, depending on the tumor’s size and symptoms.

Radiation therapy uses focused radiation to stop tumor growth without invasive surgery, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.

MediSuggest connects patients with leading specialists and hospitals, ensuring expert care and seamless appointment coordination.

Early signs of acoustic neuroma often include gradual hearing loss in one ear, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and balance problems. Some people may also experience dizziness, facial numbness, or headaches as the tumor grows.

Acoustic neuroma is not cancerous and usually grows slowly, so it's not typically life-threatening. However, if left untreated, it can lead to permanent hearing loss, facial nerve damage, or brain complications due to pressure on surrounding structures.

Diagnosis is typically done using advanced imaging tests like MRI or CT scans. These help identify the size and location of the tumor. Audiometry tests are also used to evaluate hearing loss and nerve function.

Treatment depends on the tumor's size and symptoms. Options include regular monitoring (watchful waiting), radiation therapy (like Gamma Knife), or microsurgery to remove the tumor. A specialist will recommend the best approach based on individual needs.

In some cases, especially with early detection and smaller tumors, hearing may be preserved or improved after treatment. However, once hearing is lost due to nerve damage, it may not be fully restored. Prompt medical attention increases the chances of preserving hearing.