Do not know how much longer I can wait. Am going to MGH for 4th mri and am hoping my AN is still 2cm.We have had no measurable growth since it was discovered 2 yrs ago. Doctor McKenna at MGH is wonderful and will let me decide on treatment options.Currently experiencing Left sided hearing loss (not useful hearing) tinnitius,and minor balance issues. Why can I not make up my mind?? Any Ideas?
Hi Dave,
I have been diagnosed under one year, so need to schedule my next (3rd) MRI in Oct. or so - in fact, have not done so yet.
Am i getting lazy with my appointment making or just trying to avoid the whole thing? I find the entire situation puts me in such a quandary!
The first surgeon i visited said i should do something "right away" either surgery or radiation. The radiation surgeon said i had plenty of time to decide, no rush. (same facility.) The ENT said, if the AN gets to 1.5cm, i should 'do something.' OH MY!
My biggest concerns if i wait are: additional hearing loss, balance issues (nothing significant now), increased tinnitus, and any changes in our healthcare system making treatment options more difficult. In other words, i guess i am 3/4 the way to treatment and am anxious to see the next MRI as well - just never put it in writing until now. [And the anxiety prior to the appointment really gets me going, too!] -- On the flip side, will treatment make any symptoms appear/get worse? uurrrgggggghhhhhhh!
My spouse will not weigh in on the decision either - we have always decided our own medical issues, not always an easy task - and i definitely don't like this one.
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My thoughts and prayers as you continue this journey.
I know by all others accounts, you have a great doctor - so hang in there, get the next MRI and i think you will know what to do then.
All my best from a fellow W & Waiter,
Sue