What is the first treatment for acoustic neuroma?

Acoustic neuroma, also called vestibular schwannoma, is a usually slow-growing tumour arising near the nerve involved in hearing and balance. A small tumour with stable symptoms may be followed with repeat scans and hearing tests. This is an active plan, not a lack of treatment.

When treatment is needed, brain tumour surgery may remove the tumour or reduce pressure on nearby structures. Stereotactic radiosurgery uses focused radiation to control growth without an open operation. Hearing level, balance symptoms, facial-nerve function, tumour position, scan changes, age, and personal preferences all influence the recommendation. No single approach suits every person.

Bring previous scans and a list of changes in hearing, ringing in the ear, dizziness, imbalance, or facial weakness. Ask whether observation includes a planned scan and hearing-test schedule. If an intervention is proposed, discuss its aim, possible effects on hearing and facial movement, recovery time, and whether another specialist should review the plan. Avoid driving if vertigo or imbalance makes it unsafe.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden facial weakness, a sudden major change in hearing, severe new headache, repeated vomiting, inability to walk safely, fainting, or new confusion. These symptoms need prompt assessment and should not wait for the next planned scan. Contact your specialist promptly if balance problems or swallowing difficulty are progressively worsening.

How large is the tumour and has it changed on scans? What is the aim of observation, surgery, or radiosurgery? How might each option affect hearing, balance, and facial movement? Which symptoms should trigger an urgent call? When is my next scan or hearing test due?