Does our diagnosis affect life expectancy?

[Elena Melnikova]

Greetings to all! My name is Elena, I'm from Russia. A month ago, I was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma about two cm in size. I, of course, am still in a stressful state. I am a mother of three children, and I am very scared. My most important question from the first minutes of the diagnosis-does the neuroma affect the life expectancy (with adequate treatment, of course)? Or only on the quality? Many people tell me that it does not affect the treatment and observation. Some are evasive on this subject. On the forums, I constantly meet the expression "survivor" with this diagnosis. This makes me uneasy and gives rise to new questions. So there are "non-survivors"?? Please comment if you can! I will be very grateful!

[gary.s]

Hi Elena,

Your acoustic neuroma diagnosis will have an impact on the quality of your life, not on life expectancy. This is what my neurologist and radiologist told me and after reading the forum, I do believe this is true. The symptoms you are probably already experiencing do have an impact on the quality of life. When folks on the forum use the word "survivor", it means that we went through our treatment and coped with it. Through all the anxiety and fear, we did it and are okay. We are able to survive the stress that we have all felt. Be strong and take care of yourself. You will be okay.

Gary

[Elena Melnikova]

Thank you very much for responding to my request!
I really appreciate any help and communication now. on the forum, I read so much that encourages me - all of you, such caring people who give hope! My operation will be on March 18, I am mentally ready for it (as far as possible). I'm willing to go through anything to live for my family . Thank you again!

[mwatto]

I was devastated also Elena. But two and almost a half years post Cyberknife I am doing really well. Mine was the same size as yours. I have almost normal hearing and balance is fine. Only symptom I have is occasional earache during the night. I go to gym everyday and eat healthy.  I do take some supplements and I am open to learning more. Life expectancy at 60 in Covid times just leads me to be grateful and life in the moment. I am based in Perth Australia.