An acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous tumour that grows on the nerve connecting your inner ear to your brain. While it grows slowly and isn’t malignant, it can affect your hearing and balance because this nerve is involved in both processes. Symptoms might include hearing loss, usually on one side, ringing in your ear, and balance issues. The cause isn’t always clear, though it can be associated with a genetic condition in rare cases. Treatment varies, ranging from monitoring the tumour’s growth to surgery or radiation, depending on its size and the symptoms it’s causing.