An acoustic neuroma is a benign, slow-growing lump that forms on the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain. Because the tumor inches along for years, early clues are easy to shrug off. Listen to your body for these steady, one-sided changes: One-ear hearing lossPhone sounds fade, people seem to mumble, or you start favoring the “good” ear. The dip is gradual and rarely painful. Ear fullness or ringingA constant low hiss, ocean roar, or high whistle stays in the same ear day and night. Balance wobbleYou drift when walking heel-to-toe or feel tipsy even after zero drinks. Spinning... Learn more