An acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous growth or tumor on the
auditory nerve near the inner ear. The auditory nerve carries sound impulses
from the ear to the brain.
An acoustic neuroma grows slowly and can cause hearing loss in the
affected ear. Although the growth is not cancerous, it can press on other
nerves or brain tissues as it grows.
Symptoms of acoustic neuroma may include:
- Hearing loss (usually in just one
ear).
- Ringing in the ears
(tinnitus).
- Headache.
- Numbness or weakness of one side
of the face.
- Difficulty standing or walking because of unsteadiness
or vertigo.
Acoustic neuroma is not common; it most often occurs in people ages
30 to 50. The cause is unknown. Acoustic neuromas are removed with surgery to
prevent damage to other nerves or brain tissues.
