A brain tumor is a mass or growth of abnormal cells in your brain. Brain tumors can be benign or malignant. Benign brain tumors are usually not cancerous. Malignant brain tumors are cancerous. Most brain tumors start in other parts of your body and metastasize, or spread, to your brain. A primary brain tumor starts in your brain.
The signs and symptoms of a highly malignant brain tumor depend on the size and location of the tumor. The most common sign is a headache. Other signs and symptoms include:
- Seizures
- Nausea And Vomiting
- Visual Changes
- Mood Changes and Personality Changes
- Fatigue And Drowsiness
- Balance Problems or Walking Problems
- Memory Problems
- Numbness Or Tingling in Your Arms or Legs
- Speech Problems.
These signs and symptoms can also be caused by conditions that are not brain tumors. It’s important to see your doctor so that the cause can be found and treated if needed.
Brain tumors are often silent and undetected until they cause major problems. However, with early detection through MRI or CT scans, the chances for successful treatment are much higher.
If you have a loved one who is at risk for brain tumors, please share this information with them so that they can get screened and treated as soon as possible if a tumor is detected.