Acoustic Neuroma
Specialized evaluation for tumors affecting hearing, balance, and the inner ear nerve.
An acoustic neuroma, also called a vestibular schwannoma, is a noncancerous tumor that develops on the nerve involved in hearing and balance. These tumors usually grow slowly, but they can affect hearing, cause ringing in the ear, and create balance problems over time.
At Michigan ENT & Allergy Specialists, we provide careful evaluation for symptoms that may point to an acoustic neuroma or other complex ear and skull base condition. Because these cases require specialized expertise, our Ear & Hearing Institute team helps patients understand their diagnosis and the options available.
If you’ve been diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma or are experiencing one-sided hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance changes, schedule an appointment today. We’ll help you get clear answers and a plan that fits your needs.
Common Symptoms
Acoustic neuroma symptoms often develop gradually and may affect one side more than the other. You may experience:
- Hearing loss in one ear
- Ringing, buzzing, or humming in one ear
- Trouble understanding speech, especially on one side
- Dizziness or balance problems
- A feeling of fullness in the affected ear
- Headaches in some cases
- Facial numbness, tingling, or weakness in more advanced cases
- Difficulty localizing where sounds are coming from
How We Diagnose
Diagnosis begins with a detailed history, ear exam, and hearing evaluation. If symptoms suggest a possible acoustic neuroma, additional testing may include:
- Hearing testing to evaluate one-sided or asymmetric hearing loss
- Speech discrimination testing to see how clearly you understand words
- Balance testing if dizziness or unsteadiness is present
- MRI imaging to look closely at the hearing and balance nerve
- Review of prior imaging or hearing tests if you have already been diagnosed
- Coordination with specialty providers when skull base expertise is needed
We’ll explain what the testing shows and whether your symptoms are related to an acoustic neuroma or another ear condition.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the size of the tumor, your symptoms, your hearing level, and how the tumor changes over time. Options may include:
- Observation with periodic MRI scans and hearing tests
- Hearing monitoring and support for one-sided hearing loss
- Balance therapy to improve steadiness and reduce fall risk
- Surgical consultation for tumors that are growing or causing significant symptoms
- Skull base surgery when removal is recommended
- Coordination with radiation specialists when focused radiation is appropriate
- Long-term follow-up to monitor hearing, balance, and tumor behavior
Not every acoustic neuroma needs immediate treatment. Our goal is to help you understand your options and make a confident, informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Acoustic neuromas are typically benign, meaning they are not cancer. However, they can still cause problems as they grow because of where they are located.
Most acoustic neuromas happen without a clear cause. Rarely, they may be related to genetic conditions that affect tumor growth on hearing and balance nerves.
No. Small, slow-growing tumors may be monitored with regular imaging and hearing tests. Surgery or radiation may be considered depending on size, growth, symptoms, and overall health.
Yes. One-sided hearing loss is one of the most common symptoms. Some people also experience tinnitus or difficulty understanding speech in the affected ear.
We’ll review the size and location of the tumor, your hearing test results, and your symptoms. From there, we’ll discuss whether monitoring, hearing support, radiation, or surgery may be appropriate.
Get Clear Answers from an Ear Specialty Team
If you’ve been diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma or are concerned about one-sided hearing or balance changes, Michigan ENT & Allergy Specialists can help. Schedule an appointment today to meet with a team experienced in complex ear and hearing conditions.