Acoustic neuroma history and symptoms

Overview
The symptoms vary based on the size and location of the tumor. Because the tumor grows so slowly, symptoms usually start after the age of 30.

Symptoms
The earliest symptoms of acoustic neuromas include
 * Ipsilateral sensorineural hearing loss/deafness.
 * Disturbed sense of balance and altered gait.
 * Vertigo with associated nausea and vomiting, and pressure in the ear, all of which can be attributed to the disruption of normal vestibulocochlear nerve function.

Additionally more than 80% of patients have reported tinnitus (most often a unilateral high-pitched ringing, sometimes a machinery-like roaring or hissing sound, like a steam kettle).

Large tumors that compress the adjacent brainstem may affect other local cranial nerves.
 * Involvement of the nearby facial nerve (CN VII) may lead to ipsilateral facial weakness, sensory impairment, and impairment of glandular secretions.
 * Involvement of the trigeminal nerve (CN V) may lead to loss of taste and loss of sensation in the involved side's face and mouth.
 * Theglossopharyngeal and vagus nerves are uncommonly involved, but their involvement may lead to altered gag or swallowing reflexes.

Even larger tumors may lead to increased intracranial pressure, with its associated symptoms such as:
 * Headache.
 * Vomiting.
 * Altered consciousness.