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Medical Treatments

Acoustic Neuroma Treatment

An acoustic neuroma, also called a vestibular schwannoma, is a non-cancerous tumor that develops on the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain. This nerve is important for hearing and balance. As the tumor grows, it can press on this nerve, leading to hearing loss in one ear, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), or problems with balance. People with acoustic neuromas might feel dizzy or unsteady.
The tumor grows slowly, and symptoms often appear gradually. In some cases, it can also press on nearby nerves that control facial muscles, causing numbness or weakness on one side of the face. Although it is not cancerous, if the tumor becomes large, it can press on vital brain structures, which may be life-threatening.
Treatment depends on the size and growth of the tumor. Small tumors may be monitored, while larger ones may need surgery or radiation therapy. Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and prevent serious complications.

Signs & Symptoms

 The symptoms of acoustic neuroma tend to develop slowly because the tumor grows gradually. Common symptoms include:

  • Hearing loss in one ear (the most common symptom)
  • Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
  • Problems with balance or unsteadiness
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Numbness or tingling in the face
  • Fullness in the ear

In rare cases, large tumors can press on nearby nerves and brain structures, leading to more severe symptoms, such as:

  • Headaches
  • Facial weakness
  • Vision problems
Causes

Acoustic neuroma is caused by an abnormal growth of Schwann cells, which form a protective covering around the nerves. Most cases occur sporadically, meaning there is no known cause. Still, some are linked to a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2).

When to seek medical attention?

If you experience any of the following, it's essential to consult a doctor:

  • Sudden hearing loss in one ear
  • Persistent ringing in one ear
  • Balance problems or frequent dizziness
  • Numbness or weakness in the face
  • Getting early medical advice can lead to prompt diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.
Diagnostics & Tests

To diagnose an acoustic neuroma, your doctor may recommend the following tests:

  • Hearing test (audiometry): Measures how well you hear sounds and speech.
  • Imaging tests:
    • MRI scan: The most sensitive test to detect an acoustic neuroma.
    • CT scan: This can be used if an MRI is unavailable, though it's less detailed.
    • Balance tests: These help assess how well your balance system is functioning.
Do’s & Don’ts

Do's:

  • Stay alert for symptoms: Report any changes in hearing, balance, or facial sensation to your doctor.
  • Follow your treatment plan: Follow your doctor's recommendations for regular MRI scans, radiation, or surgery.
  • Manage stress: Conditions affecting your balance and hearing can be stressful, so managing your mental health is important.
  • Engage in gentle physical activity: After recovery, light exercises can help improve balance and overall well-being.

​​​​​​​ Don'ts:

  • Don't delay treatment: If your symptoms worsen, don't wait to seek medical advice.
  • Avoid loud noises: Protect your hearing by avoiding exposure to noisy environments.
  • Don't self-medicate: Always consult your doctor before trying any treatment or supplements.

 

NOTE:

Our medical content authors have diligently gathered and synthesized information on this topic to offer valuable insights to our readers. Drawing from a range of reputable medical journals and health resources, this content aims to enhance understanding of the subject. It's important to remember that while this information is informative, it should not replace personalized consultation or treatment from a qualified physician. For further details, please refer to our Editorial Policy.

For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:

Johns Hopkins Medicine | Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)

NIDCD (.gov) | Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma)

National Organization for Rare Disorders | Acoustic Neuroma - Symptoms, Causes, Treatment | NORD

University of Michigan Health | Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)

 

Frequently Asked Questions For Acoustic Neuroma Treatment

No, acoustic neuroma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor. However, it can cause problems if it grows large enough to press on nearby structures.

Yes, acoustic neuroma can lead to permanent hearing loss, especially if left untreated or if it grows large. Early diagnosis can help preserve hearing.

If the tumor is small and does not cause significant symptoms, it may be monitored with regular MRIs instead of immediate treatment. Some people live with small tumors without any problems.

Recovery after surgery varies from person to person. Depending on the size of the tumor and the surgical approach, it may take several weeks to months to fully recover.

Most acoustic neuromas occur sporadically, but some are linked to a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), which can cause tumors in both ears.

Best Hospitals in Acoustic Neuroma Treatment

Explore All Hospitals in Acoustic Neuroma Treatment
BLK-MAX Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi – State-of-the-art medical facility
BLK-MAX Super Specialty Hospital

Pusa Road, Radha Soami Satsang, Rajendra Place New Delhi, 110005 India

Accord Superspeciality Hospital, a leading healthcare facility in Faridabad, offering advanced treatments with modern infrastructure.
Accord Superspeciality Hospital

Budena Village, Sector 86, Faridabad, Haryana 121002, India

High-tech medical equipment at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, ensuring accurate diagnostics and advanced treatment solutions.
Artemis Hospital

Artemis Hospitals Sector 51, Gurugram 122001 Haryana, India

PARAS Health, Gurugram – top multispecialty hospital for international patients via VivaVel.com
PARAS Health, Gurugram

C-1, Sushant Lok- 1, Sector-43, Phase- I, Gurugram, Haryana, 122002

Amrita Hospital, Faridabad – India's largest multispecialty hospital with cutting-edge healthcare infrastructure and global standards.
Amrita Hospital

Mata Amritanandamayi Marg, Sector 88, Faridabad, Haryana, India 121002

Columbia Asia Extended Care Hospital, Kuala Lumpur – Specialized elderly care with VivaVel
Columbia Asia Extended Care Hospital

Lot 2, Jalan Baung 17/22, Seksyen 17, 40200 Shah Alam, Selangor Kuala Lumpur, 40200 (Malaysia)

Top Doctors in Acoustic Neuroma Treatment

Explore All Doctors in Acoustic Neuroma Treatment
Rohit Gupta
  • Dr. Rohit Gupta
  • Chairman, Neurosciences
  • Neurology
  • 17 Years Experience
  • Accord Superspeciality Hospital

Dr. (Prof.) Rohit Gupta is a well-known neurologist in Faridabad, Haryana, India, with over 17 years of experience in clinical neurology. He achieved academic success...

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Sandeep Ghosh
  • Dr. Sandeep Ghosh
  • Consultant
  • Neuro-Surgeon
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Accord Superspeciality Hospital

Dr. Sandeep Ghosh is a highly regarded consultant neurologist, currently practicing at the esteemed Neurosciences Department of Accord Superspeciality Hospital in Faridabad, ...

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Vikram Dua
  • Dr. Vikram Dua
  • Director – Dept Of Brain & Spine Surge...
  • Neurosurgery & Spine
  • 26 Years Experience
  • Accord Superspeciality Hospital

Dr. Vikram Dua is one of India's top neuro and spine surgeons. With over 26 years of experience, he has performed over 10,000 surgeries, with a success rate excee...

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L. N. Tripathy
  • Dr. L. N. Tripathy
  • Senior Vice Chairman, Director & Senior ...
  • Neuro-Surgeon
  • 31 Years Experience
  • Manipal Hospital (E.M. Bypass), Kolkata

Dr. LN Tripathy is a highly esteemed neurosurgeon with an impressive 31-year career. Since April 2010, he has been the Director of the Medica Institute of Neurologica...

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Anish Kumar Ghosh
  • Dr. Anish Kumar Ghosh
  • Consultant
  • Neurology (Medicine)
  • 20 Years Experience
  • Manipal Hospital (E.M. Bypass), Kolkata

Dr. Anish Kumar is a highly experienced medical professional with over 21 years of experience, including more than 11 years dedicated to neurology. He is currently a ...

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Kaushik Sen
  • Dr. Kaushik Sen
  • HOD & Senior Consultant
  • Neurologist
  • 18 Years Experience
  • Manipal Hospital (E.M. Bypass), Kolkata

Dr. Kaushik Sen is a  highly esteemed senior consultant neurologist with over 18 years of post-DM experience in neurology. He holds a gold medal in MBBS, an MD i...

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