Acoustic Neuroma Symptoms

In most cases of acoustic neuroma, hearing loss in one ear is the chief complaint. Hearing loss tends to progress gradually, although sudden hearing loss is a possibility. Tinnitus (ringing in the ear) is also a frequent complaint. In fact, tinnitus in one ear can be your first sign that something is wrong. You may also have trouble understanding phone conversations.

Not every patient with an acoustic neuroma has hearing loss, though. Some people maintain normal hearing even with large tumors. The degree of hearing loss you experience does not depend on the size of your tumor.

Other symptoms of an acoustic neuroma include:

• Balance problems. Although common, balance problems usually aren’t the rationale behind your doctor’s visit. Because acoustic neuromas grow slowly, your body may gradually compensate for your lack of balance, and you might not notice the difference. In rare instances an acoustic neuroma may cause spinning vertigo. Ataxia or gross impairment of gait usually signifies a large tumor and may be an important neurological sign.
• Facial numbness or paresthesia (tingling sensation) is the result of pressure on your trigeminal nerve.
• Drowsiness and loss of consciousness. Very large tumors can cause drowsiness and even loss of consciousness by obstructing the flow of spinal fluid.
• Other neurological problems, such as facial twitching, eyelid spasms and headaches.

We can help

U.S. News & World Report ranks The Mount Sinai Medical Center among the top 20 hospitals in the United States for the treatment of ear, nose, and throat disease. Our Hearing and Balance Center has doctors who specialize in treating acoustic neuroma. Please call our Hearing and Balance Center at 212-241-9410 to schedule an appointment.