Warning Signs and Symptoms of a Brain Tumour

The brain is the most complex organ of the human system. It is the controlling unit of bodily functions, thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. When a tumour develops, whether it is benign or malignant, it may interfere with routine functioning causing various warning signs. 

It is very important to detect such changes early to ensure effective treatment and a favourable outcome. This blog discusses the symptoms of brain tumours, presumed risk factors, and the importance of timely medical consultation.

WhAT IS BRAIN TUMOUR?

A brain tumour refers to abnormal cell growth within or around the brain. Such tumours can be broadly divided into two types:

Non-Malignant Tumors: They are non-cancerous and slow-growing, but if large enough, they may interfere with the functioning of a part of the brain, depending on their location.

Carcinomatous Tumours: These are cancerous-type tumours, very aggressive and invasive in nature. They grow very fast and are ominous. Thus, urgent treatment is required.

Common Warning Signs And Symptoms of a Brain Tumour

Recognising the symptoms of a brain tumour may help treat it early and have a favourable outcome. Some common symptoms are as follows:

1. Recurring Headaches

Headaches are one of the most frequent symptoms of a brain tumour, but most headaches cannot be explained by the presence of a tumour. Brain tumour headaches are usually chronic, worsen over time, and often become worse in the morning or with exertion. They may also have associated nausea or vomiting.

2. Seizures

Seizures are an important presenting symptom of a brain tumour, especially in patients without a history of known epilepsy. The brain tumour can make the brain susceptible to abnormal electrical activity and results in various forms of seizures such as convulsions, unconsciousness, and unusual movement. 

3. Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are very common symptoms of many conditions. However, when combined with headaches and dizziness, they might be symptoms of increased pressure in the brain, probably due to a tumour.

4. Vision Problems

Depending on where the tumour is, brain tumours can also lead to visual effects. In some individuals, there is blurring or doubling of vision, loss of peripheral vision, or sometimes other kinds of visual changes, including flashes of light. 

All these effects are more likely to happen in individuals whose tumour is close to the optic nerves or within the occipital lobe, which is the visual centre of the brain.

5. Loss of Hearing or Tinnitus

When the tumour compresses the auditory nerve, it could also cause loss of hearing, unilateral, and usually accompanied by ringing in the ears, or tinnitus. 

6. Memory and Cognitive Changes

A brain tumour can influence a patient's memory and concentration as well as other mental functions. They become suddenly confused, and they might not remember what happened a few minutes ago. Some may also lose focus.

7. Mood and Behavioral Changes

Tumours in the parts of the brain related to emotions and behaviour, such as the frontal lobe, may cause serious mood swings and personality alteration. There could be strange behaviours, or irritability followed by depression and anxiety.

8. Weakness or Paralysis

Paralysis or weakness of one side or half may also indicate a brain tumour. Sometimes it may even come at the mildest level as slight weakness and other times as an inability to move the limb at all. 

9. Difficulties

Depending on the part of the brain affected, such tumours might result in the inability to speak as other areas of the brain responsible for language and speech are interfered with. The sites of these tumours often occur in the left hemisphere. The following symptoms may be seen - the inability to find words, slurred speech, or difficulties with listening speech.

10. Difficulty with Balance and Coordination

Tumours in the cerebellum that control balance and coordination are known to have effects on walking, coordination, and general body stability. Patients may feel dazed or unsteady, and fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt, can be challenging.

What to Do If You Suspect a Brain Tumor?

If you or a loved one are experiencing any combination of the symptoms outlined above, see a doctor. Here's what you can do:

1. Seek a Healthcare Provider Immediately

One should insist on getting a consultation with a neurosurgeon or a doctor who is accustomed to the health of the brain. They would most likely request some imaging test like an MRI or CT scan to understand the condition of the brain.

2. Note Down Symptoms

Keeping a journal regarding symptoms, frequency, duration, and intensity will give the doctor an idea of what kind of issue it is and how it's progressing.

3. Search for Support

One can start by seeking the support of a group, counselling service, or medical service provider, who will be able to guide one in gaining better insights into relevant issues.

4. Be Patient and Proactive

Brain tumour diagnosis is usually made after a few tests and doctor consultations. One should remain proactive and follow up on all test orders.

Treatment Options

The treatment of the tumour depends on its type and size, as well as where it is located and the patient's overall health. Common treatment methods include:

1. Surgery: The tumour is sometimes removed as a first option if accessible.

2. Radiotherapy: High-energy forms of radiation destroy tumour cells or slow the growth of the tumour.

3. Chemotherapy: Specific medicines are sometimes administered to target cancer cells and kill them.

4. Targeted Therapy: In some cases, specific pathways that contribute to the development of the tumour are inhibited using targeted therapy.

Realizing the warning signs and symptoms of a brain tumor helps in early intervention and even successful treatment. Symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures, mood changes, and difficulty in speech should not go unnoticed. Understanding these warning signs educates patients and caregivers appropriately to seek medical attention and care from healthcare professionals for prompt intervention.

Although experiencing one or more of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean a patient has a brain tumour, one should seek consultation from a neurosurgeon for a proper diagnosis and to rule out more serious concerns. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will make all the difference when it comes to spotting a problem early.

At Marengo Asia Hospitals, our experienced neurosurgeons specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumours. We offer comprehensive care, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. 

For more information, visit our neurosurgery page today.