The Care You Deserve for Acoustic Neuromas
Acoustic neuromas are uncommon and, in many cases, complex. That’s why you need access to experienced doctors who are not only highly skilled, but also know that compassionate care can go a long way to help you heal.
Our team will work with you to outline specific acoustic neuroma treatments that address your physical, mental and spiritual needs. From diagnosis to treatment and beyond, we’ll be at your side, guiding your journey.
Turn to Us for Answers and Hope
Learning that you or a loved one may have a brain tumor raises concerns and questions. We’re here to give you all the answers and guidance you need to take charge of your health as you move forward.
- Understanding Acoustic Neuromas
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Acoustic neuromas affect approximately 1 in every 100,000 people in the U.S., making it a rare type of brain tumor. Slow-growing and benign (non-cancerous), acoustic neuroma brain tumors grow on your vestibulocochlear nerve, affecting your hearing and balance.
- Symptoms of an Acoustic Neuroma Brain Tumor
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Acoustic neuroma symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen as the tumor increases in size.
Common symptoms include:
- Balance difficulties
- Confusion
- Clumsiness
- Facial numbness or tingling
- Feelings of fullness in the affected ear
- Gradual hearing loss
- Headaches
- Unsteadiness
- Vertigo
- Acoustic Neuroma Diagnosis
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If your doctor thinks you might have an acoustic neuroma, one or more tests may help confirm your diagnosis. First, they may perform a hearing test to identify hearing loss. Based on the results of this test, your doctor may recommend imaging tests.
Imaging for an acoustic neuroma may include:
- Audiograms and computed tomography (CT) scans can reliably identify an acoustic neuroma when magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is unavailable.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to determine whether a tumor is present and, if so, to pinpoint the location of the acoustic neuroma.
- Routine auditory tests can determine if you’ve experienced any hearing loss. If the test indicates a loss, your doctor will order additional tests to determine the cause.
- How Is an Acoustic Neuroma Treated?
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Once diagnosed, patients commonly ask: What is the best treatment for acoustic neuroma? The answer can be different for each person we see. Your doctor will discuss the best options for your acoustic neuroma treatment, which can vary based on the size and location of the tumor, and your overall health. Your acoustic neuroma treatment may include:
Gamma Knife® Radiosurgery (Available in Central Florida Only)
Gamma Knife is considered the gold standard in minimally invasive, precision radiosurgery for specific brain disorders. An innovative and incisionless procedure, Gamma Knife targets and treats tumors with millimeter precision, minimizing damage to surrounding tissue and resulting in less scarring and pain, and faster recovery times. Patients normally resume their daily activities within 24 to 48 hours.Observation
In some cases, no immediate treatment is needed. We’ll monitor your tumor over time and recommend treatment only if it affects your quality of life.
Radiation Therapy
Various types of outpatient radiation therapy may be used to target your tumor and prevent it from growing.
Surgery
Surgery to partially or entirely remove your tumor may effectively treat an acoustic neuroma. We specialize in minimally invasive technology that uses lasers to remove your tumor or decrease its size.
Follow-Up Care
Sometimes, an acoustic neuroma can recur (come back) after treatment. So, we provide follow-up care to ensure you have the best possible outcome. We also recommend that you stay in close contact with your primary care provider throughout your recovery.
- Specialized Acoustic Neuroma Care for Every Diagnosis
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When you’re facing a brain tumor diagnosis, you want a team you can trust by your side. That’s what you’ll find within our AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute network.
Find a Neurology Provider in Your Area
Trusted neurologists and neurosurgeons are right here in your community. Find a provider now to get the expert support you deserve.
Acoustic Neuroma Support Group
If you have been diagnosed with acoustic neuroma and have questions, wish to explore treatment options and coping strategies with other patients and clinical experts, please join us for upcoming acoustic neuroma support group meetings provided several times a year free of charge. Pre- and post-treatment acoustic neuroma patients, family members, caregivers, friends and interested persons are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact the Acoustic Neuroma Association (ANA) at Call770-205-8211 or email volunteers@ANAUSA.org or visit www.ANAUSA.org.
Discover Your AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute Network
Across the nation, each of our locations shares the same commitment to innovation, expertise and a whole-person approach. Explore your options for care close to home with the guidance of our dedicated team. We’ll help you find the right fit, so you’re in the best setting to get the care you need.
