Connect
Anyone else diagnosed with acoustic neuroma, a benign brain tumor?
My name is Tracy Daley. I live in Omaha, Nebraska. My diagnosis is a jumbled mess that I am sorting out right now. Can anyone tell me if anyone in this support group has been diagnosed and/or treated for acoustic neuroma, a benign tumor affecting the acoustic nerve, which is the eighth cranial nerve in your brain? This nerve is connected to your ear. These tumors initially affect a person's balance and hearing and then other symptoms may appear. This is a very rare tumor and one out of 100,000 people and 8-9% of the intracranial tumors. If no one has heard of this tumor, I understand.
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Brain Tumor Support Group.
Connect
@teresa, my balance has shown the most improvement over the years. From using a cane to pretty much doing what I used to, minus extra head movements, there has been a lot of progress. I also started yoga classes for additional balance challenges. There are a few things I just cannot do, but yoga provides an ongoing exercise for strength and balance. I have noted that if I am inactive for a long period, then I don't feel as confident in my movements. Also there are just bad days where dizziness may prevail due to weather, etc.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionYou bring up an important point, @sepdvm. I have Parkinson's and I feel the same way about exercise. If I don't exercise for several days (Tai Chi is my exercise of choice for balance) I really notice the difference. My gait and balance really suffer.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI had my post-op appointment at Mayo yesterday. On the doctors ordered More Physical Therapy. He's hoping it will help with my balance problems. He's rescheduled me to come back to mail and January for another MRI and a meeting with the surgical team Plus radiologist. If the tumor that is still attached. In three areas need radiation that will be considered. He was happy with my recovery so far. ☺
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsI so appreciate the update, @rose4622. I am glad to hear that the doctor was pleased with your recovery so far. That feels good doesn't it?
I am also glad to hear of your additional PT for the balance problems. I have Parkinson's and balance is always a problem for me. I usually go to PT at least twice a year, sometimes 3 times.
Was there any discussion about the problem with your eye not closing?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHi Teresa
The eye is closing better now.and my mouth on the right side is lifting more too. He said it would continue to improve. I told him that food still doesn't taste the same. He said that may change too. I told him i want to start driving. He said i can when PT says i can. 😥
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionThat all sounds positive, @rose4622. I have heard that it takes the nerves a while to regenerate after surgery so perhaps this is what is happening.
Try your best to be patient. I know it isn't easy, because I'm not a patient person, I just want to get on with life. I'm guessing you are probably the same way.
Do you have a job to get back to or are you retired now?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI'm retired but have worked part time since. The office is begging me to come back.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI'm sure your office misses you, @rose4622. I am also retired from full time work, but I have a part-time job that I can do from home. I love the feeling of being productive and also enjoy not having to get out in the winter time to go to work!
Keep working on the recovery process! I look forward to hearing from you again.
I have had insomnia bad the last week. Don't know what to do!
I'm sorry to hear that, @rose4622. Is this typical following this type of surgery? Have you checked with your doctor about it?