A brain tumor is an abnormal mass of tissue that has grown in the brain. Brain tumors are either malignant, which means cancerous, or benign, which is noncancerous. It’s impossible to see a brain tumor with the naked eye, so how do you figure out if you have one?
Signs and symptoms can help determine if you have a brain tumor. If the following ones apply, it’s essential that you see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and possible treatment.
Common Signs and Symptoms
The brain is a complex organ and different parts of it control different functions in the body. When a tumor pushes against the brain or is within the brain, healthy brain tissue is compromised, which can change the way it functions.
Symptoms of a brain tumor can vary – depending on exactly where the tumor is located and the size of the tumor – so you may experience completely different symptoms from another individual who also has a brain tumor.
Overall, some general signs and symptoms of brain tumors include:
Headaches
Headaches are a common ailment that almost everyone gets. So how do you know which headache is normal and which is not? Brain tumors can increase the chances of headaches and make them more severe. If you rarely experience headaches and all of a sudden are experiencing them more often, you should see a doctor.
If you get headaches often but now they are more severe, it could also be a sign of a brain tumor. Pay attention to the frequency and severity of the headaches.
Nausea and Vomiting
Unexplained nausea and vomiting can be a big nuisance. If you are experiencing these symptoms out of nowhere and frequently, it could be a sign of a brain tumor.
Vision Problems
Vision problems like blurred vision, difficulty with peripheral vision, and double vision are signs that something is wrong. If you experience sudden changes in your vision, get it checked out immediately to determine if a brain tumor may be causing it.
Loss of Sensation
If you begin to lose sensation in one or more of your extremities, it could be a sign of a brain tumor. Be aware of any strange sensations in your body, or any differences between what you feel in different body parts. It might be time to see a doctor to determine the cause.
Speech Difficulties
Another sign of a brain tumor is speech difficulty. This can include slurred words, difficulty getting out sentences smoothly, and slower speaking speed. If you experience speech difficulties that you did not have before, it could be a sign of a brain tumor.
Personality or Behavioral Changes
If your loved ones notice that your personality or behaviors have changed significantly, it could be a sign of a brain tumor. A sudden change in likes, dislikes, and actions can indicate that something in the brain is off (possibly due to a tumor).
Seizures
Seizures are a very common sign of brain tumors. If you don’t have a history of seizures and start having them all of a sudden, a brain tumor could be the cause.
Neurosurgeons in Colorado
If you suspect that you or a loved one may have a brain tumor because of signs or symptoms like the ones mentioned, it’s critical that you see a medical professional who can examine and diagnose you.
The experts at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery have a wealth of knowledge and experience treating neurological conditions like brain tumors.
Call (303) 790-1800 to make an appointment today. You can also request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you get properly diagnosed and treated.
