Brain Tumour Symptoms
It is worth noting that the symptoms of brain tumours are similar to those of other neurological Associated with the nervous system and the brain. disorders, and many of the most common symptoms are often more associated with other medical conditions. Symptoms range from headache to strokeAny sudden neurological problem caused by a bleed or a clot in a blood vessel.. Symptoms of brain tumours vary naturally depending on the location of the tumour in the brain and hence the function that part of the brain is responsible for. An MRIAn abbreviation for magnetic resonance imaging, a technique for imaging the body that uses electromagnetic waves and a strong magnetic field. or a CTThe abbreviation for computed tomography, a scan that generates a series of cross-sectional x-ray images scan is the best diagnosisThe process of determining which condition a patient may have. – see Gamma Knife Radiosurgery.
Recognised brain tumour symptoms
- Nausea and / or vomitingExpusion of the contents of the stomach through the mouth. - more severe in the morning.
- confusion and disorientation, and memory loss.
- Hearing loss with or without dizziness.
- An unusual seizureUncontrolled electrical activity within the brain, leading to convulsions or an alteration in mental state. (or ‘fit’ more usually associated with epilepsyA tendency to have recurrent seizures.) in an adult.
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes, especially if the vision loss is more peripheral.
- Double vision, especially if it is associated with headache.
- Gradual loss of movement or sensation in a limb (arm or leg).
- Unsteadiness and / or imbalance, especially if it is associated with headache.
- Gradual onset of speech difficulty.
Other symptoms sometimes associated with brain tumours:
Headaches are probably the most common symptom of a brain tumour, although most people with headaches do not have a tumour. A steady headache that is worse in the morning than the afternoon, a persistent headache that is associated with the symptoms listed above all suggest the need for further urgent investigations.
Abnormal changes in behaviour, for example, someone may start to adopt an "I don't care" attitude, there may also be associated memory loss, loss of concentration, and general confusion. In this case, an evaluation by a neurologistA doctor who specialises in disorders of the nervous system. may be an important step, and CT or MRI will also help.
Infertility or abnormal cessation of menstruationThe shedding of the lining of the uterus (period), as part of the female reproductive cycle. (also known as amenorrhea). However, there are naturally more common and less sinister causes of these symptoms.
Troubles that seem to be caused by other diseases or concerns: A seizure that results from a fall or the discovery of what appears to be a subarachnoid haemorrhageBleeding into the subarachnoid space surrounding the brain, the area between two of the three layers (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord (the arachnoid mater and the pia mater). may actually be caused by tumours.
In all cases it is best to seek urgent advice especially as early detection and treatment in the case of brain tumours can increase the chance of a successful outcome. To contact a Consultant Neurosurgeon specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumours click here.
