Acoustic neuroma may be found in people with the disease neurofibromatosis . Apart from the link with neurofibromatosis the cause is unknown. Research is being carried out into possible causes. Signs and symptoms Acoustic neuroma is a slow growing tumour and symptoms often develop gradually over several years. The commonest symptom is hearing loss in the affected ear.
Dizziness is also fairly common.
If the tumour is pressing on the nearby facial nerve it can cause facial paralysis and numbness or drooping of the mouth or eyelid. There may be general signs of a brain tumour, such as headache, particularly on waking, lethargy and changes in personality. In larger tumours, pressure may be put onto the brainstem and cause headaches, visual disturbances and problems with walking. People may walk awkwardly or stumble and have problems keeping their balance. Speech may also be affected.