What is an Acoustic Neuroma?

Understand the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Overview

When we think about conditions that affect hearing, most people immediately think of age-related hearing loss, ear infections, or noise damage. But there are also rarer conditions that can affect the auditory system in very different ways. One such condition is the acoustic neuroma.

An acoustic neuroma is a non-cancerous tumour that develops on the nerve responsible for hearing and balance. Although it is considered rare, the impact it can have on everyday life is significant.

Because these tumours grow slowly, symptoms often develop gradually and may be mistaken for more common ear problems such as wax build-up, inner ear infections, or general hearing decline.

By the time a diagnosis is made, many people have already been living with symptoms for some time.

Understanding acoustic neuroma is important because early recognition can lead to better management and outcomes. Left untreated, a growing tumour can interfere not just with hearing but also with balance, facial movement, and even vital brain functions.

Fortunately, advances in medical imaging and treatment mean that today, acoustic neuroma can often be diagnosed earlier and managed more safely than in the past.

In this article, we will explore what an acoustic neuroma is, why it develops, the symptoms you should be aware of, and the treatment options available.

Whether you are someone experiencing unexplained hearing changes, a family member supporting a loved one, or simply curious about hearing health, having clear information about this condition can make a real difference.

What is an Acoustic Neuroma?

An acoustic neuroma (also known as vestibular schwannoma) is a non-cancerous tumour that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. This nerve is responsible for both hearing and balance.

The tumour grows slowly, and while it does not spread to other parts of the body, it can press against nearby structures as it enlarges, leading to various complications.

Because of its slow growth, some people may live with an acoustic neuroma for years before noticing any symptoms. However, monitoring and treatment are often necessary to prevent serious issues such as hearing loss or pressure on the brainstem.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of most acoustic neuromas is not fully understood. However, there are some known contributing factors:

Genetics – In rare cases, the condition is linked to a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), which causes tumours to grow on nerves throughout the body.
Spontaneous cell changes – Most cases are sporadic, meaning they occur without a clear inherited cause. Mutations in the Schwann cells (which insulate nerves) are thought to play a role.
Radiation exposure – Some research suggests that previous radiation exposure to the head and neck may slightly increase the risk.

Unlike some conditions, lifestyle factors such as diet or exercise do not appear to have a direct impact on the development of acoustic neuroma.

Symptoms to Watch For

Because acoustic neuromas affect the hearing and balance nerve, symptoms often start subtly and worsen gradually. Common signs include:

Hearing loss in one ear– Unilateral hearing loss is the most frequent symptom. It may begin with difficulty hearing certain sounds or words.
Tinnitus – Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, or roaring sound in the affected ear.
Balance problems – Dizziness, unsteadiness, or vertigo can occur, especially with larger tumours.
Ear fullness or pressure – A sensation that the ear is blocked.
Facial numbness or weakness – In more advanced cases, the tumour may press on the facial nerve, leading to tingling or weakness on one side of the face.

If the tumour grows significantly, it can press on the brainstem and cerebellum, leading to more serious complications such as headaches, difficulty swallowing, or problems with coordination.

Diagnosis

If an acoustic neuroma is suspected, doctors typically use a combination of:

Hearing tests (audiometry) – To assess the extent of hearing loss.
Imaging scans (MRI or CT scans) – MRI is the most reliable way to detect and measure the tumour.
Balance tests – To evaluate vestibular function.

Because its symptoms can mimic other ear conditions, an accurate diagnosis is essential.

Treatment Options

Treatment for acoustic neuroma depends on the size of the tumour, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s overall health. Options include:

Observation (Watchful Waiting) -For small tumours that cause few or no symptoms, doctors may recommend regular monitoring with MRI scans and hearing tests with an audiologist.
Surgery - Larger or symptomatic tumours may need to be removed through microsurgery. While surgery can be effective, it carries risks such as hearing loss, facial nerve damage, or balance issues.
Radiation Therapy - Stereotactic radiosurgery (such as Gamma Knife) delivers targeted radiation to stop the tumour from growing further. This option is less invasive and often used for medium-sized tumours or when surgery is not suitable.

Living with Acoustic Neuroma

While an acoustic neuroma is not life-threatening in most cases, it can affect daily life—particularly if it leads to hearing loss or balance problems.

Supportive treatments such as hearing aids, balance therapy, and counselling can help improve quality of life. Regular follow-ups with specialists are also important, as tumours can regrow or change over time.

Conclusion

An acoustic neuroma is a rare but important condition to be aware of, particularly if you or someone close to you is experiencing changes in hearing or balance.

While the word “tumour” can sound frightening, it’s important to remember that acoustic neuromas are benign (non-cancerous) and typically grow very slowly.

With modern diagnostic tools such as MRI scans, these tumours can be detected earlier than ever before, allowing for careful monitoring and personalised treatment plans.

For some people, this may mean regular check-ups without immediate intervention, while others may benefit from surgery or targeted radiation therapy to prevent the tumour from growing further.

Alongside these medical options, supportive measures like hearing aids, balance therapy, and counselling can help reduce the day-to-day challenges that come with the condition.

The key message is that acoustic neuroma, while serious, is manageable. Many people go on to live full, active lives after diagnosis and treatment. By understanding the signs—such as one-sided hearing loss, tinnitus, or persistent balance problems—you can take early steps to seek medical advice.

Above all, awareness is empowering. Knowing what an acoustic neuroma is, how it presents, and the treatments available gives individuals and families the confidence to make informed decisions about their health.

With the right support, this condition does not have to define or limit the way you live your life.

Think you or a loved one may have an Acoustic Neuroma?

Don’t ignore the early signs of change. Take action today. If you’ve noticed one-sided hearing loss, persistent ringing in the ear, or balance problems, it’s important to listen to what your body is telling you.

These could be signs of an underlying condition, such as an acoustic neuroma. Start with a simple conversation with your GP or a specialist, and arrange the scans or hearing tests that can provide clarity.

The sooner you seek advice, the sooner you can take control of your health, protect your hearing, and maintain your quality of life. Your well-being and peace of mind are worth it.

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