Hi! This is my first post.
I'm 57 and have had intermittent left-ear tinnitus my whole adult life. In 3/2024 I perceived some significant hearing loss on that side and was ultimately diagnosed with a 1.9 x 1.3 x 1.1 cm vestibular schwannoma (aka acoustic neuroma). In 5/2024 I underwent three rounds of CyberKnife radiation.
I felt completely fine (well, except for the hearing loss) until 10/2024, at which point I noticed intermittent mild dizziness and vertigo. I found that this prevented deep focus and concentration (essential for my line of work), so I went on a short-term medical leave. Subsequently I had a follow-up MRI which indicated that the tumor has not grown and shows sign of damage from the radiation. This was a relief.
I'm been seeing a vestibular physical therapist for the last 3+ weeks, and have a daily battery of exercises that I faithfully perform. I noticed my symptoms intensifying after I started therapy, and was told to expect that things would get worse before they get better. But my therapist seems to think that the increase is worse than what would be expected from just the therapy. So now I'm worried that my symptoms from the VS are worsening by themselves, and that the therapy may not be effective if my vestibular situation is a moving target.
Does anyone have any experience, insight, or wise words for me regarding this situation? It really seems like vestibular PT is successful in a great many cases, but I worry I may be an exception - unable to return to work and suffering permanent vertigo/dizziness.
