Brain cancer, also known as intracranial neoplasms, is caused when abnormal growths form within the brain tissue. These growths can cause various complications and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Brain cancer can arise from different cells or tissues within the brain. It can also spread or metastasize to other parts of the body.

Brain cancer is a serious condition that requires early diagnosis and prompt treatment. Here is a list of warning signs to help you identify if you or someone you know might have brain cancer:.

1. Headaches

Headaches are a common symptom of brain cancer. They are usually more frequent, severe, and have a different pattern than an individual’s typical headaches. These headaches might occur in the morning and worsen when lying down.

They might also come along with nausea, dizziness, or vomiting.

2. Vision Problems

Tumors in the brain that affect the eyes can cause vision problems. These may include blurred vision, double vision, loss of peripheral vision, or visual field defects.

You may notice that one eye is higher than the other or that one pupil is larger than the other, which indicates the tumor is affecting the surrounding nerves.

3. Seizures

Seizures occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Brain tumors can cause seizures, which could be the first sign of cancer. Seizures might range from mild shaking to loss of consciousness, or even convulsions.

The frequency and severity of seizures can vary depending on the location of the tumor.

4. Cognitive Changes

Brain cancers can interfere with cognitive abilities such as thinking, speaking, reasoning, or problem-solving. The changes in cognitive processing might worsen gradually over time.

In some cases, these changes might mimic the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Weakness or numbness in the limbs

Brain tumors can cause the gradual loss of muscle coordination, weakness in the arms or legs, or difficulty in walking. You may also experience a tingling sensation in your fingers or toes or a total lack of sensation in certain parts of your body.

6. Hormonal Imbalances

Pituitary gland tumors can disrupt the regular production of hormones, leading to hormonal imbalances. This imbalance can affect the reproductive system leading to loss of sexual function, infertility in men and women, and abnormal menstrual cycles.

It can also cause growth hormone deficiencies leading to stunted growth and other growth-related problems.

7. Changes in Emotional State

Brain tumor patients might experience changes in their emotional states such as mood swings or depression. It can also lead to apathy, loss of interest in everyday activities, and changes in personality, leading to irritability, anxiety, or aggression.

8. Speech and Language Difficulties

Brain cancers can cause speech problems such as slurring, stuttering, or difficulty communicating.

Patients might find it challenging to articulate words, and they may substitute everyday words that they would usually use for common words that are unusual or nonsensical.

9. Trouble with Coordination

Brain tumors can interrupt the cerebellum functions of coordinating body movements and maintaining balance.

Patients might experience difficulty walking, clumsiness, or a lack of coordination when performing fine motor tasks such as writing, buttoning a shirt, or holding small objects.

10. Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting, often accompanied by dizziness or headache, are common signs of brain cancer.

These symptoms are caused by the pressure that is exerted on the brain tissue, which triggers a feeling of queasiness, especially when the patient changes their position.

Conclusion

As there are many different types of brain cancers, the warning signs can vary from patient to patient. It is important to note that many of these symptoms can be caused by other factors, and not by brain cancer.

However, if you or a loved one experience one or more of these symptoms excessively and persistently, it is best to consult a medical professional immediately, as early diagnosis and treatment is key in effectively fighting Brain cancer.