What to Watch For and When to Seek Help
A brain tumor occurs when abnormal cells grow in the brain. These abnormal cells may form a mass that can interfere with how the brain works. Sometimes, these tumors are noncancerous (benign) and sometimes they are cancerous (malignant). In this article we review common symptoms of a brain tumor, or how to tell if brain cancer might be present.
10 Common Symptoms of a Brain Tumor
1. Headaches
Headaches are one of the first signs of a brain tumor. They might be unusual and come on more often than normal. The headaches may be worse in the morning or when you lie down, because pressure builds up in the skull during sleep. Sometimes a headache caused by a tumor does not go away with usual headache medicines.
2. Seizures
Seizures are sudden bursts of uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain. They can look like shakes or jerking movements in parts or all of the body. In a person who has never had a seizure before, a seizure might be a sign that there is something unusual in the brain. Seizures can make a person lose consciousness for a short time. If someone has a seizure, they need medical attention right away.
3. Difficulty with Language
Difficulty with language means having trouble speaking, reading or understanding words. This can happen when a tumor affects parts of the brain that control language. People may find it hard to find the right word or may mix up words when talking.
4. Personality Changes
Personality changes refer to a notable difference in how a person behaves. A brain tumor can affect parts of the brain that control emotions and behavior. A person might become easily upset, confused or may act out of character.
5. Weakness or Paralysis
A brain tumor can press on areas that control movement, which leads to weakness or even paralysis on one side of the body. For example, a person may have trouble moving their arm or leg.
6. Balance Issues
Balance problems are common if a tumor interferes with a person’s ability to coordinate their movements. This might make simple tasks such as walking, standing or climbing stairs dangerous, because the person may feel unsteady on their feet.
7. Vision Issues
Vision issues can include blurred vision, double vision or partial loss of vision. When a tumor presses against the brain’s vision centers, these changes can occur. Even if you have worn glasses for a long time, a sudden change in your vision is something that needs prompt medical investigation.
8. Facial Numbness
Facial numbness happens when someone feels a loss of sensation or tingling in their face. This is usually a sign that a brain tumor might be pressing on nerves that control sensation. If one side of the face becomes numb or feels different from the other side, it is a signal that medical care is needed.
9. Nausea or Vomiting
Unexplained nausea or vomiting is another possible symptom. These symptoms might not be directly related to the stomach, but can come from increased pressure inside the skull caused by a tumor. Often, these feelings are worse in the morning or occur along with headaches.
10. Confusion
Confusion is when a person feels disoriented or finds it hard to think clearly. They may have trouble with memory or in following everyday directions. This symptom can affect a person’s ability to do normal tasks and may also alter how they interact with other people.
Benign vs. Cancerous Brain Tumors
Brain tumors can be classified as either noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). A benign tumor does not invade nearby tissue and grows slowly. Even though it is not cancerous, a benign brain tumor can still be dangerous because it may press on brain tissues and cause symptoms like those described above.
In contrast, cancerous or malignant brain tumors can grow quickly and may spread to other parts of the brain or the spinal cord, causing symptoms to appear and progress more rapidly. These tumors are also more likely to interfere with vital functions. Knowing the type of tumor is important as it can greatly influence the treatment options and the outlook for recovery.
Not All Brain Tumors Are Cancerous
It is important to remember that not every brain tumor is cancerous. Many brain tumors are benign and might grow slowly over time. This means that even though a tumor may cause symptoms because of its location in the brain, it is not necessarily cancer that will spread to other parts of the body.
Medical professionals use imaging tests, biopsies and other examinations to tell if a tumor is benign or malignant. Treatments for benign tumors might be less aggressive, while cancerous tumors may require a combination of surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.
Paying close attention to the symptoms of a brain tumor is very important. This information is crucial for anyone who cares about brain health and wants to stay informed about the risks and signs of brain tumors.