Acoustic Neuroma

In conventional medicine, acoustic neuroma, also known as vestibular schwannoma, is a benign tumor that grows on the nerve that connects the ear to the brain. It develops from the Schwann cells that surround and insulate the nerve. Although it is not cancerous, it can cause a range of symptoms as it grows and presses on nearby structures, including:

1. Hearing loss: Acoustic neuroma often causes gradual hearing loss in one ear, which may be accompanied by ringing in the ear (tinnitus) or a feeling of fullness in the ear.
2. Balance problems: As the tumor grows, it can affect the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation. This can lead to dizziness, vertigo, and difficulty walking.
3. Facial numbness or weakness: The tumor can compress the facial nerve, which can cause numbness or weakness on one side of the face.
4. Headaches: Some people with acoustic neuroma experience headaches, which may be severe and persistent.
5. Vision problems: In rare cases, the tumor can grow large enough to compress the optic nerve, which can cause vision problems.

Diagnosis of acoustic neuroma may involve a physical exam, hearing tests, imaging tests (such as MRI or CT scan), and sometimes a biopsy. Treatment options depend on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the person's overall health and symptoms. Treatment may include observation, surgery, or radiation therapy. A team of healthcare professionals, including an ear, nose, and throat specialist and a neurosurgeon, may be involved in the treatment plan.

In natural health, acoustic neuroma may be viewed as a result of an imbalance in the body's Qi (vital energy) and Blood, as well as the accumulation of Dampness and Phlegm. Natural health treatment for acoustic neuroma may include a combination of acupuncture, herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes. Here are some natural health approaches that may be helpful for acoustic neuroma:

1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a key component of natural health and involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture may help to improve Qi and Blood flow, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain and other symptoms associated with acoustic neuroma.
2. Herbal remedies: Natural health practitioners may recommend specific herbs and herbal formulas to help address the underlying imbalances that contribute to acoustic neuroma. Some commonly used herbs include Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Huang Qi, and Ren Shen, which may help to strengthen Qi and nourish Blood.
3. Dietary adjustments: Natural health dietary therapy emphasizes the use of whole, nutrient-dense foods to support overall health and wellbeing. For acoustic neuroma, natural health practitioners may recommend a diet that is low in Dampness-producing foods, such as dairy products, sugar, and greasy or fried foods. Instead, they may recommend foods that are nourishing and easy to digest, such as bone broth, dark leafy greens, and ginger tea.
4. Lifestyle changes: Natural health practitioners may also recommend lifestyle changes that support overall health and wellbeing, such as stress reduction techniques like meditation or tai chi, gentle exercise, and adequate rest and sleep.

It's important to remember that natural health approaches health and wellness holistically and may involve other modalities such as cupping, gua sha, and moxibustion.

Foods & drinks could help:

1. Warm foods: Warm foods are believed to promote circulation and energy flow in the body. Examples of warm foods include ginger, cinnamon, and garlic.
2. Nourishing foods: Foods that are nourishing to the liver and kidneys may be beneficial for acoustic neuroma. Examples of nourishing foods include black beans, black sesame seeds, and goji berries.
3. Foods rich in antioxidants: Foods that are high in antioxidants may help to protect the body against cellular damage and inflammation. Examples of antioxidant-rich foods include green tea, blueberries, and dark chocolate.
4. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial for reducing inflammation in the body. Sources of omega-3s in TCM include walnuts and flaxseeds.
5. Bone broth: Bone broth is believed to be nourishing for the body and can be made by simmering bones and vegetables for an extended period of time.

Foods & drinks should be avoided:

1. Cold and raw foods: Cold and raw foods are believed to impair digestion and weaken the spleen, which can lead to an accumulation of dampness and phlegm in the body. Examples of cold and raw foods include raw vegetables, cold drinks, and ice cream.
2. Spicy foods: Spicy foods are believed to increase heat and inflammation in the body, which may exacerbate symptoms for individuals with acoustic neuroma. Examples of spicy foods include chili peppers, black pepper, and ginger.
3. Stimulants: Stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol can interfere with sleep and digestion, which can negatively affect overall health. Additionally, they may have a stimulating effect on the nervous system, which may worsen symptoms for individuals with acoustic neuroma.
4. Fried and greasy foods: Fried and greasy foods can be difficult to digest and may lead to dampness and phlegm accumulation in the body. Examples of fried and greasy foods include french fries, fried chicken, and fast food.