An acoustic neuroma, also known as a vestibular schwannoma, is a non-cancerous growth that develops on the eighth cranial nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. It is important to note that any medical concerns should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Acoustic Neuroma and Headache Connection
While headaches are not the most common initial symptom of an acoustic neuroma, they can occur in some individuals, particularly as the tumor grows larger. Headaches can arise from the tumor pressing against the dura, the brain’s protective covering. This pressure can lead to a dull or aching headache, often located on the side of the head where the tumor is situated. The pain may also extend to the neck, or the front or top of the head.
In rare instances, a growing acoustic neuroma can obstruct the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, leading to a buildup of fluid in the brain, a condition known as hydrocephalus. This increased fluid pressure inside the skull can also cause headaches, along with other symptoms like unsteady movement and confusion. Headaches are more common with larger tumors or those in areas that exert more pressure. It is important to remember that headaches can have many causes, and their presence does not automatically indicate an acoustic neuroma.
Other Common Symptoms
Beyond headaches, acoustic neuromas often cause other symptoms. Gradual hearing loss in one ear is the most common initial symptom, affecting approximately 90% of individuals. This hearing impairment often progresses slowly over months or years, sometimes affecting the ability to distinguish higher frequencies.
Tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the affected ear, is another frequent symptom. This sound can be constant or intermittent and may vary in pitch. Many individuals also experience dizziness or balance issues, as the tumor grows on the nerve responsible for equilibrium. In some cases, facial numbness or weakness can also develop due to pressure on adjacent cranial nerves, such as the trigeminal or facial nerves.
What is Acoustic Neuroma?
An acoustic neuroma is a non-cancerous tumor that typically grows slowly. It forms on the vestibulocochlear nerve, also known as the eighth cranial nerve, which originates from the inner ear and extends to the brain. This nerve has two main branches: one for hearing (cochlear) and one for balance (vestibular).
The tumor arises from Schwann cells, which form the protective myelin sheath around nerve fibers. For this reason, acoustic neuromas are also referred to as vestibular schwannomas. These tumors usually develop in the cerebellopontine angle, an area at the base of the brain near the brainstem. While generally slow-growing, their expansion can compress nearby nerves and brain structures.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
Diagnosing an acoustic neuroma begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination, including an ear exam. Hearing tests, known as audiometry, are performed to assess hearing impairment and determine if it stems from a nerve problem. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with contrast dye is the primary imaging test used to confirm the diagnosis, as it can detect tumors as small as 1 to 2 millimeters. A computed tomography (CT) scan may be used if an MRI is not feasible, though it may miss smaller tumors.
Treatment approaches for acoustic neuroma vary depending on factors such as tumor size, growth rate, and the presence of symptoms. One common approach is observation, or “watch and wait,” which involves regular MRI scans to monitor the tumor, often chosen for small, slow-growing tumors with minimal symptoms. Another option is radiation therapy, such as stereotactic radiosurgery, which delivers precisely targeted radiation to stop tumor growth while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Surgical removal of the tumor is also an option, particularly for larger tumors or those causing significant symptoms, with the aim of preserving nerve function and alleviating symptoms like headaches.