Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic Neuroma – Healing Touristry

Globally, acoustic neuroma affects roughly 2,500 individuals every year – a number that has been steadily rising in recent times. Also known as vestibular schwannomas or neurolemmomas, acoustic neuromas are non-cancerous growths that develop on the vestibulocochlear nerve connecting the inner ear with the brain. These tumors grow slowly, over a period of several years, and can eventually compress surrounding cranial nerves to affect those responsible for facial expression and sensation. If allowed to grow large enough, acoustic neuromas can press on the brain stem with fatal consequences.

Recognize the symptoms

The earliest acoustic neuroma symptoms are subtle and are often mistaken as regular symptoms of ageing. In many cases, this delays detection and treatment until the tumor has grown large enough to have serious implications. It is hence important to be aware of acoustic neuroma symptoms and approach your physician should you experience any of these.

• A gradual loss of hearing in one ear
• Tinnitus or ringing in the ear
• Difficulty maintaining balance
• Vertigo or a spinning sensation
• Facial numbness or tingling, which may be constant or sporadic
• Weakness of the facial muscles
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness
• Clumsiness and confusion

What causes acoustic neuroma?

Acoustic neuroma can be sporadic or rooted in the neurofibromatosis type II syndrome. The causes for sporadic acoustic neuroma are as yet unclear, although certain studies indicate that it may be linked to exposure to high levels of radiation, especially near the head and neck, as well as prolonged exposure to loud noises. The other cause of acoustic neuroma, namely neurofibromatosis type II, is very rare and contributes only 5 percent of all acoustic neuroma cases. It is known, however, that this condition affects more women than men and can seldom occur in young children.

How is acoustic neuroma treated?

Treatment usually begins with observation. Since these tumors grow slowly and are not cancerous, immediately treatment is not essential. Doctors will monitor the growth of the tumor with MRI scans and suggest the most suitable course of treatment. Large tumors may require surgery to remove all or part of the tumor. Modern acoustic neuroma treatments make it possible for surgeons to remove the tumor while preserving and restoring the patient’s hearing, while also employing minimally invasive techniques. Radiation therapy may also be employed – state-of-the-art techniques allow acoustic neuroma specialists to minimize damage to surrounding tissue.

Early acoustic neuroma diagnosis makes it possible for physicians to recommend the most suitable course of treatment. Acoustic neuroma specialists will take into account several factors such as the size and severity of the tumor, and the patient’s age and other medical conditions, before selecting an appropriate treatment.

Healing acoustic neuroma in India

With its several multispecialty hospitals equipped with the latest facilities and surgeons skilled in the most advanced and least invasive techniques, India is a leading destination for acoustic neuroma treatment. Healing Touristry can provide invaluable assistance to patients seeking acoustic neuroma treatment in India, by doing all the groundwork (including arranging medical visas, pre- and post-operative care, and accommodation facilities), while providing easy access to the best acoustic neuroma surgeons and hospitals in the country.