I have just been told I may have AN b... - Acoustic Neuroma ...
I have just been told I may have AN but will have to wait 6 to 8 weeks before having a scan. Is this normal?
Unfortunately that is not unusual. ANs are usually slow-growing so it is not urgent for you to have a scan but the fact that you are feeling stressed and in limbo doesn't seem to count. Make sure you keep in mind that ANs are very treatable and as I said, usually slow-growing (if growing at all). If this is your first scan they will probably suggest another scan in 6 months or so in order to determine whether your AN is actually growing. Having said that, all medical centres are different and have variable timelines. Also I am not medically trained so am unable to give any kind of medical advice but can only tell you what I have learned from other AN sufferers.
Try to put it to the back of your mind until after the scan - very difficult, I know, but getting upset and stressed about things will only make you feel worse. I do hope things work out well for you and hopefully your AN will never grow so will never need treating. Let us know how you get on.
If you can, try to insist that they use a contrast dye (it's called Gadolinium) when they do the MRI scan as it gives a much better result. Often for the first scan they don't do this then they have to rescan some weeks later with the dye if you have an AN. Seems like a stupid approach to me, but it is typical as many of us have discovered!
I have been told that ANs are relatively rare. Compared with the number of MRIs that show nothing it would seem an unjustified expense to scan twice (as with Gadolinium) when most 'basic' scans will show nothing.
Even though AN tumour growth is usually slow, and a six week unlikely to matter, it's disappointing and stressful that Oscarf is facing a six week wait. Fingers crossed for him/her.
Hi thanks for the concern I have decided to pay for the scan as the stress is getting to me.
Oscarf
Hi I have had three scans and due for my fourth in nov. Mine hasnt grown as yet. I went for a hearing test last week as hearing has got worse so consultant brought my scan forward. Consultant has said we will wait for scan results and discuss options as in surgery or gamma radiotherapy. I dont like the thort of surgery as mine is 14mm and they normally operate at 15mm . Ive got to be honest my only symptoms are deafness and noises in my left ear. apparently ive had this for 15yrs and didnt know. Dont worry to much when I was diagnosed I was scared, but there are a lot or worse things you can have. Just carry on as normal and try to forget like others say or it will drive you mad.I was lucky in one sense I was able to retire my my pharmacy job two years early than 60 so now I am enjoying life to the full.
