Symptoms of acoustic neuroma generally involve a person’s sense of hearing. Gradual hearing loss is a typical symptom, although in some cases the loss of hearing can be sudden. Generally, the hearing loss is limited to one ear or is more pronounced on one side than the other. Hearing loss is the first symptom in about 90 percent of people with this condition, according to the Acoustic Neuroma Association.

A sense of fullness in the affected ear often occurs. Patients also may experience ringing in the ear (tinnitus), dizziness (vertigo), loss of balance, and facial numbness and tingling (intermittent or constant).

If tumors become especially large, they may press on the brain stem and cause a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the skull, a condition called hydrocephalus. This can result in increased pressure within the skull, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of this condition include abnormal gait, confusion and headaches.