Q: Dear Dr. Mao,
Can you suggest a way to shrink an acoustic neuroma and lift it out of the internal auditory canal?
A: With any growths, tumors, lipomas, and neuromas, the most important thing is to ensure that they are not impeding local anatomy. In this particular case, the neuroma needs to be assessed for possible impingement of local nerves that might impair hearing or sensory signals. Once you have ruled this out, the next step would be to determine with your physician if having a surgical procedure is warranted.
Otherwise, I suggest you look at a macrobiotic diet or a similar low-calorie dietary program, which can assist with tumor shrinkage. Avoid dairy and high-fat foods. Eat lots of green leafy vegetables and antioxidant rich foods such as berries. There are some specific herbal remedies in traditional Chinese medicine that might be helpful. You should first discuss this with your physician and get approval; then contact a licensed practitioner to discuss adjunctive treatments.
