What is acoustic neuroma?

Acoustic Neuroma
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Acoustic neuroma

An acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous growth or tumor on the auditory nerve near the inner ear. The auditory nerve carries sound impulses from the ear to the brain.

An acoustic neuroma grows slowly and can cause hearing loss in the affected ear. Although the growth is not cancerous, it can press on other nerves or brain tissues as it grows.

Symptoms of acoustic neuroma may include:

  • Hearing loss (usually in just one ear).
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
  • Headache.
  • Numbness or weakness of one side of the face.
  • Trouble standing or walking because of unsteadiness or vertigo.

Acoustic neuroma is not common; it most often occurs in people ages 30 to 60. The cause is unknown. Acoustic neuromas may be removed with surgery if symptoms are severe, in order to prevent damage to other nerves or brain tissues.

How can you care for an acoustic neuroma?

  • Protect your ears from loud sounds. This can prevent hearing loss from getting worse.
  • Try hearing aids if you have trouble hearing.
  • Think about joining a support group. Sharing your experiences with other people who have the same problem may help you learn more and cope better.

Acoustic neuroma: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • You have symptoms of a stroke. These may include:
    • Sudden numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of movement in your face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of your body.
    • Sudden vision changes.
    • Sudden trouble speaking.
    • Sudden confusion or trouble understanding simple statements.
    • Sudden problems with walking or balance.
    • A sudden, severe headache that is different from past headaches.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You are dizzy or lose your balance.
  • You lose hearing in one ear.
  • Part of your face droops or sags.
  • You have vision problems, such as blurred or double vision, or you can see only out of one eye.
  • You slur your words or cannot talk normally.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • You do not get better as expected.

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