Acoustic Neuroma Overview

Balance Difficulties

The inner ear is responsible for regulating an individual's balance. When an acoustic neuroma damages the inner ear or the messages between the inner ear and the brain, it leads to balance difficulties. Affected individuals may lose their balance or feel unsteady when they walk. Balance difficulties can take a variety of forms. Some individuals feel like they're moving or that the world is moving around them, even when it isn't.

Others feel lightheaded or faint, like they're experiencing a blood pressure drop. Patients might feel unsteady and have trouble with a straight, balanced gait. General dizziness, a sensation of floating, and blurred vision are also associated with inner ear issues. The specific type of balance problem an individual is having can help their doctor determine the underlying cause.

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is the most common complication of an acoustic neuroma. In most cases, the hearing loss will be gradual, and patients may not notice it at first. The loss also tends to occur only on the affected side. However, if individuals have acoustic neuromas on both nerves, they may experience gradual hearing loss in both ears. Rather than being balanced, hearing loss will typically be more pronounced in one ear. Some patients do experience sudden hearing loss, which can be confusing and alarming. If individuals notice they're losing hearing in one or both ears, they should see their doctor to ascertain the cause. Most causes of hearing loss can be treated.