Brain tumors can have a wide variety of symptoms, depending on the location, size, and type of the tumor, as well as the individual patient. Some common symptoms of brain tumors include:
Headaches: A frequent and persistent headache, especially one that is worse in the morning and improves as the day goes on, can be a symptom of a brain tumor.
Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting can be caused by the pressure of a brain tumor on the brainstem, which controls these functions.
Seizures: Brain tumors can cause seizures by disturbing the normal electrical activity of the brain.
Weakness or numbness: Brain tumors can press on the motor or sensory areas of the brain, leading to weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body.
Vision or hearing changes: Brain tumors can press on the visual or auditory centers of the brain, leading to changes in vision or hearing.
Memory and cognitive difficulties: Brain tumors can cause problems with memory, attention, and concentration, as well as other cognitive difficulties.
Behavioral and personality changes: Brain tumors can cause changes in behavior, mood, and personality, such as depression, irritability, or apathy.
Balance problems or dizziness: Balance problems or dizziness can occur if the tumor is located in the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain that controls coordination and balance.
Unexplained nausea or vomiting: Nausea and vomiting can also be a symptom of a brain tumor if it is pressing on the part of the brain that controls nausea and vomiting, such as the area postrema.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by many other conditions, and a brain tumor may not be the cause of these symptoms in every individual. In many cases, brain tumors are discovered incidentally, on imaging done for other reasons, and may not be causing symptoms, but if you have any of the above-mentioned symptoms, consult your doctor.
It’s also worth noting that not all brain tumors are cancerous (malignant); many brain tumors are benign and may not spread to other parts of the body. But benign tumors can still be dangerous if they continue to grow, since they can press on sensitive areas of the brain and cause damage.