Facial numbness, tinnitus, and ear whistling may signal a tumor on the auditory nerve, a topic discussed on a health program featuring Elena Malysheva and neurosurgeon Pavel Ivanov from the Sergey Berezin Medical Institute.
In the program, a woman shared that she sought medical help after experiencing numbness along the right side of her face. After evaluation, doctors diagnosed a benign growth on the auditory nerve, commonly referred to as a neuroma or schwannoma. Ivanov explained that this tumor is formed by the cells that line the sheath surrounding the auditory nerve, a condition that can press on nearby nerves and cause additional symptoms. The story highlights how such tumors can manifest through facial numbness and alterations in facial sensation, underscoring the importance of early medical assessment when unusual facial or ear symptoms appear.
As the tumor grows, it can impinge on the facial nerve as well, which explains the numbness reported by the patient. The discussion on the program also noted classic signs of neuroma, including persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears and difficulties with balance. These symptoms arise because the tumor can affect the delicate balance and auditory pathways within the inner ear, leading to a range of sensory disturbances that may worsen over time if not evaluated by specialists.
Among the treatment options discussed was radiation therapy, specifically a gamma knife procedure. This technique delivers highly focused radiation to the tumor while sparing adjacent healthy tissue, offering a noninvasive alternative to traditional surgery. The procedure is performed without a cutting incision and is designed to minimize risk to surrounding structures. During gamma knife treatment, the patient’s head is stabilized with a specialized frame to ensure precision. According to the physicians, most patients experience the procedure with little to no discomfort, and the process typically takes only a few minutes, followed by monitoring for any changes as the tumor responds to therapy. This option has become a preferred choice for many patients who seek a targeted approach with fewer immediate risks compared to open surgery.
Additionally, the program touched on the broader implications of such tumors, including potential impacts on hearing, facial movement, and overall quality of life. Specialists emphasize the importance of personalized care plans that consider tumor size, growth rate, patient age, hearing status, and facial nerve function. For some individuals, observation with regular imaging may be appropriate, while others may benefit from single-session radiosurgery or conventional microsurgical removal, depending on the specifics of the case. The goal remains to preserve hearing and facial function whenever possible while controlling tumor growth and preventing further neurological complications.
Beyond the medical pathways, the program highlighted the emotional and cognitive aspects of living with an auditory nerve tumor. When a voice or a sense of balance is affected, daily activities—such as communication and safe navigation in social settings—can become more challenging. Health professionals advise patients to seek multidisciplinary support, including audiology, physical therapy, and counseling, to adapt to changes and maintain independence. Through careful assessment and ongoing follow-up, patients can often manage symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life while pursuing the most suitable treatment strategy.
Overall, the dialogue on the program reinforces the message that neurological tumors of the auditory nerve, though rare and often benign, require timely attention. Early reporting of facial numbness, ear tinnitus, or balance disturbances can lead to prompt diagnosis and the opportunity to explore effective treatment options with minimal impact on overall health. The medical team encourages patients to consult specialists promptly when such symptoms occur, ensuring that they receive clear information about diagnostic steps, available therapies, and expected outcomes. The pathway chosen will reflect a careful weighing of risks and benefits, tailored to each individual’s medical history and life goals.