So, you’ve been having these headaches lately and it’s got you worried. Could it be … a brain tumor?
Relax. Headaches usually are NOT an early symptom of a brain tumor. Nevertheless, it’s got you wondering what would be a potential sign that something is amiss in your head.
Any cell in your brain can form a tumor and since your brain manages the operation of every part of your body, there can be a long list of brain tumor symptoms depending on the location of the growth. For example, if your vision is blurry, it could mean you have a tumor near the part of your brain that controls your eyesight.
However, some of the more common signs and symptoms of a brain tumor include:
Seizures
This is often one of the first warning signs. Inflammation from the tumor causes the brain’s neurons to fire uncontrollably, resulting in abnormal movements. You may experience jerking or flexing that is confined to one part of your body or full-blown, whole-body convulsions.
Clumsiness
We all have moments of awkwardness from time to time. But if you often fumble with objects, miss steps, have difficulty keeping your balance, or problems speaking, swallowing or controlling your facial expressions, it could indicate the presence of a cerebral tumor.
Numbness
Loss of feeling in a part of your body or face is one of the more obvious symptoms of a potential brain tumor. Formation of a tumor on the brain stem that connects your brain to the spinal cord, for example, could trigger a loss of feeling or clumsy movements.
Vision problems
Blurred vision, double vision, seeing “auras,” or a loss of vision are often associated with brain tumors.
Deviations in Memory or Thinking
Brain tumors can affect the way you process your thoughts. You may feel confused or disoriented or find yourself struggling to remember things.
Nausea
Persistent and unexplained queasiness could also be a telltale sign of a brain tumor.
Of course, any of these indicators could be caused by other very common, everyday conditions. That’s why it’s important to consult with your doctor as soon as your experience any unusual symptoms.
Although children and adults over 60 are the most likely to develop a brain tumor, it can happen to anyone at any age. In fact, the majority of them occur in people with no known risk factors.
If you are diagnosed with a brain tumor, it isn’t necessarily life-threatening. Small and benign tumors require no treatment and can simply be monitored for growth and changes. Large or malignant tumors can be treated with surgery, medication, radiation or chemotherapy.
At Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery, we believe that an informed patient is the best patient. We practice comprehensive, patient-centered care designed to help you achieve the best possible outcomes. If you’re experiencing neck, back or leg pain, call us today at (303) 790-1800 phone or use our online form to request an appointment.
