Early Warning Signs of Brain Tumors You Shouldn’t Ignore

A brain tumor means the abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain and its tissues. These tumors can start growing in parts such as the nerves, the pineal gland, the pituitary gland, or the membrane that covers the brain’s surface. There are mainly two types of brain tumors, namely, benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous). Brain tumors multiply and can also spread to other parts of the body. Due to this, it is crucial to identify the early signs and treat them early on. This article explores brain tumor symptoms to ease seeking timely medical attention.

What are Some Early Brain Tumor Symptoms?

Since brain tumors are known to grow silently without exhibiting clear signs in some cases, it is imperative to take note of the common indications. Some detectable brain tumor symptoms are:

1. Chronic Headaches: These include severe headaches, feeling of pressure inside the head, or persistent migraines that are more serious during mornings. The pain might feel localized with a sharp, throbbing sensation. Such headaches do not respond well to over-the-counter pain relievers.
2. Seizures: A ScienceDirect study states about 30-50% of patients with brain tumors experience seizures as an initial sign. The onset of a seizure is recognized through involuntary twitching, convulsions, tingling sensations, and hallucinations. The frequency and severity of seizures depend on the location and size of the tumor.
3. Cognitive Difficulties: These refer to loss of memory, speech disabilities, decreased spatial awareness, difficulties in learning, and often changes in behavior and personality. These difficulties begin to hinder tasks like planning and decision-making if left untreated.
4. Nausea and Vomiting: They happen due to an increased amount of pressure inside the skull, also known as intracranial pressure (ICP). Nausea is worse in the mornings as this pressure accumulates in the skull overnight and then drains when the patient is in an upright position during the day.
5. Difficulty in Swallowing: Also known as dysphagia, this symptom happens when the tumor starts to affect the functioning of the throat and oesophageal muscles involved in swallowing. Dysphagia induces complications such as choking, drooling, coughing while eating, and a feeling of food being stuck in the throat.
6. Disorientation and Memory Loss: Patients may find it challenging to learn new things, form new memories, and recall past events. The frontal and temporal lobes of the brain control memory, language, and emotional regulation. When the tumor starts impacting them, the patient enters this confused and disoriented state.
7. Dizziness and Loss of Balance: Dizziness and imbalance are widely experienced brain tumor symptoms. The cerebellum is the part of the brain that facilitates coordination, movement, and balance. When the tumor begins to affect it, the patients start experiencing difficulties in balance and gait.
8. Hormonal Issues: The hormones that are directly linked to growth, metabolism, and reproductive functions are produced and secreted by the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain. A tumor located near this gland leads to symptoms like irregular periods, weight fluctuations, decreased libido, and mood disturbances.

Read more: Role of Genetics in Brain Tumours

When to See a Doctor?

It is important to seek medical attention if any of the neurological symptoms begin interfering with day-to-day life. Getting diagnosed should not be delayed as brain tumors are known to advance quietly and rapidly. While some of the early symptoms can get mistaken as regular stress and lifestyle issues, medical evaluation helps diagnose the condition in time.

Since brain tumors exhibit symptoms similar to other localized conditions, timely diagnosis becomes crucial. Medical evaluations such as MRIs and CT scans help in evaluating the size, location, and types of brain tumors. While benign ones exhibit minimal brain tumor warning signs that worsen over time, malignant tumors are sudden with intense signs that deteriorate over days or weeks. Thus, early detection of brain tumor symptoms facilitates a targeted recovery plan that helps reduce the risk of complications.

Upon experiencing any of the symptoms, consult a healthcare provider to get tested and diagnosed. Dr Lal PathLabs offers a range of brain tumor diagnostic tests. Download the Dr Lal PathLabs app to book one for quick and reliable diagnosis.

FAQs

1. What causes brain tumors?

The exact cause of brain tumors is unknown. However, certain factors like genetic history, radiation exposure, and certain lifestyle habits like smoking increase the risk of developing brain tumors.

2. Is hair loss a symptom of a brain tumor?

No, hair loss isn’t a direct symptom of brain tumors. Instead, it results as a side effect of treatment procedures like chemotherapy and radiation therapy that target the head.

3. Can brain tumors come back even after treatment?

Yes, sometimes malignant brain tumors can come back even after treatment. This is why regular follow-ups, clinical evaluations, and imaging scans are advised even after recovery.