A brain tumor is a mass or growth of abnormal cells within the brain. It can be either benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Brain tumors are one of the most serious diseases and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
According to the American Brain Tumor Association, about 700,000 people in the United States are living with a brain tumor. It is important to know the symptoms of brain tumors so that you can recognize the condition and seek medical help immediately.
1. Headaches
Headaches are a common symptom of brain tumors. Tumors can cause headaches by putting pressure on the brain or causing inflammation. Headaches caused by brain tumors are usually persistent and do not go away with over-the-counter pain medication.
They may also become worse when the person wakes up in the morning or coughs, sneezes, or bends over.
2. Seizures
Seizures are another common symptom of brain tumors. Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Brain tumors can cause seizures by interfering with the normal functioning of the brain.
Seizures caused by brain tumors can take many forms, such as convulsions, muscle contractions, or staring spells.
3. Vision Problems
Brain tumors can cause vision problems by putting pressure on the optic nerve or other parts of the brain that control vision.
Vision problems caused by brain tumors can take many forms, such as blurry vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision.
4. Speech Problems
Brain tumors can cause speech problems by interfering with the normal functioning of the brain. Speech problems caused by brain tumors can take many forms, such as slurred speech, difficulty with word-finding, or difficulty with comprehension.
5. Nausea and Vomiting
Brain tumors can cause nausea and vomiting by putting pressure on the brainstem, which controls the body’s basic functions. Nausea and vomiting caused by brain tumors are usually persistent and do not go away with over-the-counter medication.
6. Cognitive Changes
Brain tumors can cause cognitive changes by interfering with the normal functioning of the brain. Cognitive changes caused by brain tumors can take many forms, such as memory loss, difficulty with concentration, or changes in behavior or personality.
7. Weakness or Numbness
Brain tumors can cause weakness or numbness by putting pressure on the brain or spinal cord. Weakness or numbness caused by brain tumors can affect one or both sides of the body.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to see a doctor immediately. Early detection and treatment are critical in treating brain tumors.
Your doctor may use imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, to determine if you have a brain tumor.
The treatment for brain tumors depends on the type, location, and size of the tumor. The most common treatments for brain tumors are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Conclusion
Brain tumors are a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Knowing the symptoms of brain tumors can help you recognize the condition and seek treatment as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing any of the seven symptoms discussed in this article, please see a doctor immediately.