At Memorial Sloan Kettering, we know that even after you’ve finished your acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) treatments, you may still need our help. We’re committed to supporting you in every way we can — physically, emotionally, spiritually, and otherwise — for as long as you need us.
Although acoustic neuroma tumors are benign (noncancerous), it’s still natural and normal to worry about your diagnosis — before, during, and after treatment. We’ve built a program for patients and their families that includes support groups, follow-up programs, educational resources, and more.
Plus, we offer individual and family counseling, lectures and support groups, and practical guidance on employment and insurance issues, among other services.
Hearing Loss from Acoustic Neuroma
Partial or complete hearing loss is one of the most common symptoms of an acoustic neuroma. In addition, treatment (surgery or radiation therapy) can also cause hearing loss.
Experts in our Speech and Hearing Center have extensive training in hearing therapy for people of all ages. We have access to the best technology, which allows us to offer highly precise evaluations and innovative options for therapy.
At MSK, we have a variety of options that could lead to excellent hearing in everyday life. You and your doctors will make a decision together, based on your individual needs and preferences. These options include:
- Conventional hearing aids
- Contralateral routing of signals (CROS) hearing aids: This device takes sound from your ear with poorer hearing and transmits it to the ear with better hearing.
- Bone-anchored hearing aids: This device takes sound from your ear with poorer hearing and transmits it to the ear with better hearing, without having to wearing a device on the side with better hearing. It requires a minor surgery.
- Cochlear implant: This is a small electronic device that provides a sense of sound. It is surgically placed in your inner ear in an outpatient procedure, separate from your acoustic neuroma surgery. Whether you are a candidate depends on your age, the size of your acoustic neuroma, and other factors.
Dizziness from Acoustic Neuroma
If you suffer from vertigo, dizziness, imbalance, or migraines after treatment for acoustic neuroma, we can refer you to a vestibular physical therapist who will work with you to reduce these symptoms.
Integrative Medicine
Medical treatments — like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery — are often the best way to treat your cancer. Their whole purpose is to get you healthy again. But at MSK, we know that complementary services can also help soothe and heal not only your body but your mind and spirit, too.
Our Integrative Medicine Service can be a valuable part of your formal treatment plan. Programs we offer include massage, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, meditation, visualization, music therapy, and nutritional counseling. Formal classes include yoga, tai chi, and chair aerobics.
Learn more about the variety of complementary medicine services we offer.
Counseling and Support
Sometimes, you and your loved ones just need someone to talk to, someone who’s trained to help you make sense of your journey before, during, and after treatment.
Our Counseling Center offers both individual and group counseling sessions to help you and your family cope with your disease. These sessions can be a healthy, productive way to work through the stress and anxiety that are sometimes a part of treatment and recovery.
Learn more about how we can support your emotional well-being.
Monday through Friday, to , (Eastern time)
