Kirsty Gallacher Provides Update on Acoustic Neuroma and Worsening Symptoms

Television presenter Kirsty Gallacher has shared a candid update on her ongoing health battle, revealing that one of her symptoms has worsened significantly over the past year. The 50-year-old was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma—a benign tumour on the nerve connecting the ear to the brain—in the summer of 2021 .

Gallacher, who had previously experienced hearing loss in her right ear, recently underwent radiotherapy to manage the tumour. She is now scheduled for an MRI to assess the effectiveness of the treatment. Speaking with Vanessa Feltz on her television programme, Gallacher explained: “I discovered I basically have a brain tumour, an acoustic neuroma in my right ear. I had radiotherapy last year, so now I’m going for an MRI to see if it has worked. The success rate is very high, but it won’t completely remove the tumour. The question is whether it shrinks it and destroys the DNA so it doesn’t keep growing” .

The presenter also noted a significant increase in tinnitus and hearing difficulties compared to the previous year. These symptoms are typical of vestibular schwannomas, which can also cause dizziness, facial numbness, persistent headaches, and temporary double vision. Gallacher had previously paused her presenting role at GB News in August 2024 to focus on her recovery.

Reflecting on her ongoing medical journey, she stated: “It’s a situation of ‘try and see.’ I have a lot of appointments lined up. I took a week off to attend the first round of therapy last week, and I’ll need regular check-ups to prepare for further radiotherapy—or possibly surgery” .

Gallacher’s openness highlights both the physical and emotional challenges faced by those living with acoustic neuromas. Her transparency continues to raise awareness of the importance of monitoring, early detection, and the rigorous follow-up required for benign yet potentially impactful brain tumours.