Plan for Progress  

Brain tumor symptoms varies based on on the person and their exact situation. Different factors of the tumor will influence the symptoms of the brain tumors rests on a nerve or damages a certain area of the brain. They also may be caused when the brain swells or fluid builds up within the skull.

The most common symptoms of brain tumor :

Headaches

Headaches are a usual initial symptom. Typical “brain tumor headaches” are often said to be worse in the morning, with improvement step by step during the day. They may arouse the person from sleep. Sometimes, upon awakening, the individual vomits then feels better. These headaches may worsen with coughing, exercise, or with a change in position such as bending or kneeling. They also do not typically respond to the general headache remedies. 

Seizures

One-third of people diagnosed with syptoms of brain tumor are not aware they have a tumor until they have a seizure. Seizures are a common reaction of a brain tumor. Seizures are caused by a disruption in the normal transportation of electricity in the brain. Those sudden bursts of electricity may cause convulsions, unusual sensations, and loss of consciousness. Specific seizures, such as muscle twitching or jerking of an arm or leg, abnormal smells or tastes, problems with speech or numbness and tingling, may also occur.

Mental and / or Personality Changes

These can range from complications with memory (especially short-term memory), speech, communication and / or concentration changes to severe intellectual problems and confusion. Changes in behavior, temperament and personality may also occur, based on where the tumor is located. These changes can be caused by the tumor itself, by a rise in pressure within the skull caused by the existence of the tumor, or by involvement of the parts of the brain that control personality.

Focal, or Localized, Symptoms

In addition to the common, but non-specific reactions listed above, other more specific symptoms frequently occur. These “focal symptoms” can help identifythe location of the tumor. Focal symptoms include: hearing problems such as ringing or buzzing sounds or hearing loss, decreased muscle control, lack of coordination, decreased sensation, weakness or paralysis, difficulty with walking or speech, balance problems, or double vision.

Nausea and Vomiting

As with headaches, these are non-specific, which means that most people who have nausea and vomiting do NOT have a brain tumor. Nausea and/ or vomiting is more likely to point towards a brain tumor if it is accompanied by the other symptoms associated with a brain tumor.

Behavioral and cognitive problems

Many persons haveobserved and cognitive changes, such as: problems with recent memory, inability to concentrate or finding the right words, acting out – no patience or tolerance, and loss of inhibitions – saying or doing things that are not suitable for the situation.

If you find yourself forming any of these symptoms, feel free to consult your doctor and explain that you feel that you are experiences reactions related to a brain tumor. Don’t be left in the dark.