Causes Of Tinnitus To Look Out For

Acoustic Neuroma

An acoustic neuroma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that slowly grows along the vestibular nerve, one of the major nerves connecting the inner ear to the brain. Patients with this tumor often have very subtle symptoms that take years to develop. Symptoms associated with an acoustic neuroma normally include tinnitus in the ear affected by the tumor and gradual hearing loss. Dizziness, balance problems, and facial numbness have been reported, and some individuals with this tumor might experience weakness or an inability to move certain muscles. To perform an assessment for an acoustic neuroma, a physician will examine the ear with an otoscope, and a hearing test with an audiologist may be performed. MRI scans are ideal for detecting acoustic neuromas, and these scans are capable of detecting tumors as small as one millimeter in diameter. If an acoustic neuroma is detected, doctors may recommend regular monitoring for some patients, particularly for individuals who have no symptoms and who have small tumors. Surgical removal is an option for many acoustic neuromas, and stereotactic radiosurgery may also be considered.

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