Which is NOT a symptom of an acoustic neuroma?

Acoustic neuroma, also known as vestibular schwannoma, primarily affects the vestibulocochlear nerve, which can lead to specific symptoms. The condition is characterized by symptoms such as unilateral tinnitus, which is the perception of ringing or noise in one ear; dizziness or balance issues due to its effect on the vestibular portion of the nerve; and large auditory nerve asymmetries, which refer to significant differences in auditory function between the two ears as detected through audiometric testing.

In contrast, expecting an improvement in word recognition is not a symptom associated with acoustic neuroma. Individuals with this condition typically experience a decline in auditory function, including difficulties with word comprehension, particularly at higher frequencies or in the presence of background noise. The expectation of improvement would not align with the typical progression of this type of tumor, as it usually leads to a deteriorating auditory experience rather than an enhancement. Therefore, this is the correct choice, highlighting a misunderstanding of the associated auditory challenges posed by acoustic neuromas.