Confirmed AN - what happens next

[johnwalter]

HI just had AN confirmed after MRI scan. Sudden hearing loss in one ear 3 months ago. Had to give up teaching music.

Getting lots of pain in neck teeth and ear which lasts for a few days at a time. Consultant suggested dentistry so I can rule that out.

what happens next?

[bypass]

Next come education, education, education! Start with anworld.com/ and read up on the subject. Sadly no specialist knows all about all the options and each naturally thinks that their treatment is best. However there is no one size fits all best treatment as all have different drawbacks. As a music teacher you need to look closely at treatments which preserve hearing - indeed there is one which can sometimes recover a degree of lost hearing. I was directed to such a treatment by a piano teacher who had had it. You can read my story here anarchive.org/chris.htm Good luck, Chris

[Njd59]

Hi John,

For many of us the first weeks/months after learning we have an acoustic neuroma is very hard, with the shock of the information, and what life changes it might bring. I'd recommend finding out as much as you can about ANs, and be prepared to Watch and Wait (a new skill for me!) If the lump grows to a size where it needs treatment, there are excellent centres around the country for radiosurgery or an operation. I was a primary teacher doing lots of music, and the noise became too much. I can still hear well enough to accompany, and teaching individuals or small groups may well be possible. All the best with the dentist, and follow up visits to your consultant.

[Kristyll]

You will see a medic who will decide whether you need an op or to watch and wait. I think your teeth probs mat be connected

[anan88]

I also feel your teeth/jaw issues are connected. Your nerves in that part of your head are all sensitized. I, and many others, had all sorts of twitches, aches, pains around eyes, nose, mouth, teeth, lips, skull from the AN itself and then surgery etc...... Your skull's going to be interesting for a while! Do your research, and remember that most in the medical profession, however well-meaning and committed, have never had an AN and experienced all the myriad symptoms. There are lots of us rooting for you and knowing exactly what you're feeling! X

[johnwalter in reply to anan88]

Thanks. Trigeminal neuralgia it seems is the pains and twitches. GP explained Normal painkillers don't work , put me on a low dose antidepressant that seems to calm things down a bit.