Insight Neurology – Being well-informed and vigilant about health symptoms can be life-saving – especially when it comes to brain tumors. Although brain tumors are relatively rare, with fewer than 100,000 people in the United States diagnosed with brain tumors each year, their symptoms can overlap with less serious conditions and go unnoticed until it is too late. This is why recognizing the warning signs of a brain tumor and being proactive are essential for receiving the best possible medical care and improving your chances of effective treatment. Whether you are experiencing persistent and unusual symptoms or have a family history of brain tumors, here are some of the top warning signs you might have a brain tumor.
Persistent or Severe Headaches
Headaches are a common medical condition that we all experience from time to time. Anything from eyesight problems and lack of sleep to having a cold or flu can trigger a headache. However, there are certain characteristics of a headache that may indicate something more serious is occurring. New or unusual headaches that change in type or intensity and become more frequent or severe should be monitored closely. Further, headaches that are worse in certain situations, such as mornings or when lying down, are a likely indicator of increased pressure occurring in the brain that should be evaluated.
Seizures
Experiencing a seizure for the first time can be alarming and is often an indicator of something more serious, such as a brain tumor. If you have experienced one or more seizures without any prior history, you should seek immediate medical attention. Seizures come in many forms, which is why it is important to be aware of their signs and symptoms. Body convulsions, twitching, and jerking movements are some of the most common signs of a seizure. However, gazing/staring spells, loss of consciousness, sudden confusion, muscle stiffness, and unusual sensations like tingling are a few of the other seizure symptoms that are common but less recognizable.
Changes in Cognitive Function and Personality
Other warning signs that you may be experiencing complications from a brain tumor are changes in cognitive function or personality. This can range from difficulty remembering things and concentrating to experiencing sudden confusion in familiar situations. It is also common for people with brain tumors to notice an increase in mood swings, irritability, and unexplained feelings of depression.
Unforseen Weakness and Numbness
Sudden loss of strength or unusual sensations in certain parts of the body are often a sign of brain tumors or other neurological issues. A key indicator something is wrong is localized weakness in the arms, legs, or on a particular side of the body. Additionally, strange sensations like numbness or tingling, especially on one side of the body, is also an indicator that you should be evaluated by a physician.
Hearing, Speech, and Vision Difficulties
Changes in hearing, speech, and vision are also likely indicators of a brain tumor or other neurological condition. Changes in vision and hearing, such as blurred or double vision, are directly related to the brain and should be evaluated by a specialist. Unexplained hearing loss and persistent ringing in the ears should be assessed as well. Speech problems, including difficulty forming words, slurred speech, finding the right words, and misunderstanding spoken or written language, are other indications of a serious problem that warrants immediate medical care.
Anyone experiencing persistent or unusual symptoms that could indicate the presence of a brain tumor should consider visiting a physician for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. This includes those with persistent headaches, seizures, vision changes, balance issues, speech difficulties, and any other unexplained neurological symptoms. The team at Insight Neurology specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of neurological conditions, including brain tumors. To learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment, contact us today.
FAQ
Q: What is a brain tumor?
A: A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain or central spinal canal caused by a number of factors, including genetic mutations, family history, and exposure to certain environmental factors. Brain tumors can either be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Q: How are brain tumors treated?
A: There are a number of treatment options for treating brain tumors. Depending on the type of tumor, as well as its size and location, brain tumors may be treated with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and other targeted treatments.
Q: Is there a way to prevent brain tumors?
A: Although there is no way to prevent brain tumors, it is recommended that people limit exposure to risk factors such as unnecessary radiation, as well as certain environmental or toxic substances known to cause brain tumors.