Abnormal cell growths in the brain, known as brain tumours, can manifest as either cancerous or noncancerous formations. Depending on their size, location, and growth rate, brain tumours can cause various symptoms. Detecting brain tumours early is essential for successful treatment outcomes.
In this article, we will discuss brain tumour warning signs, including common symptoms, personality and behavioural changes, headache patterns, visual and auditory disturbances, motor skill impairments, cognitive changes, and seizures.
We will also cover diagnostic procedures and treatment options.
Common Warning Signs and Symptoms
The brain tumour warning signs and symptoms can vary depending on the type, size, and location of the tumour. The general brain tumour warning signs and symptoms may include:
- Experiencing worsened head pressure or headaches in the morning.
- Noticing an increase in both the frequency and severity of headaches.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Changes in speech, vision, or hearing.
- Problems balancing or walking.
- Changes in mood, personality, or behaviour.
- Seizures.
- Problems with memory or thinking.
It is important to note that other medical conditions can also cause these symptoms, so it is essential to consult a doctor if you experience any brain tumour warning signs.
Personality and Behavioral Changes
Brain tumours can cause changes in personality and behaviour, which can include:
- Irritability or aggression.
- Confusion and forgetfulness.
- Apathy (lack of interest and motivation).
- Depression and flattening of emotion.
- Anxiety
- Mood swings or extreme moods.
- Difficulty planning and organising.
According to a study published in the Journal of NCBI, 13% to 16% of brain tumour patients reported behavioural issues, whereas 34% of individuals in large research experienced behavioural alterations.
Headache Patterns and Red Flags
Headaches are the most common brain tumour warning signs, occurring in about half of the people with brain tumours. Headaches caused by brain tumours are often worse when you wake up in the morning.
They can also happen if a growing brain tumour presses on healthy cells around it or causes swelling in the brain that increases pressure in the head. However, headaches can be caused by several things, like dehydration, illness, hangovers, sinus infections, and more.
Other features of headaches have been identified as “red flags,” which are brain tumour warning signs include:
- A change in the previous headache pattern.
- Headaches that worsen over time.
- Headaches that occur in the morning.
- Feelings of nausea and episodes of vomiting accompany headaches.
Visual and Auditory Disturbances
Brain tumours can cause changes in vision, such as blurred or double vision, abnormal eye movements, a restricted field of view, and more. They can also cause hearing problems, such as ear ringing, hearing loss, or muffled hearing.
Motor Skill Impairments and Coordination Issues
Brain tumours can result in problems with balance, impacting one’s ability to walk and engage in various activities. They can also affect the muscles’ fine coordination, leading to problems with dexterity (skills).
Cognitive Changes and Memory Loss
Brain tumours can cause problems with memory or thinking, including difficulty with concentration, confusion, and forgetfulness. They can also affect the ability to recognise objects, identify emotions in others, and learn.
Seizures and Their Association with Brain Tumors
Seizures can be a symptom of brain tumours, mainly if they occur suddenly and without any previous history. Seizures can also be a sign of other medical conditions, but it is essential to rule out the possibility of a brain tumour. Then, brain tumour warning signs can include:
- Convulsions
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of consciousness
- Staring spells
- Unusual sensations
- Confusion
Diagnostic Procedures and Treatment Options
If you experience any of the brain tumour warning signs, it is essential to consult a doctor. The doctor may perform a neurological exam to check your vision, hearing, balance, coordination, and reflexes.
They may also order imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to look for abnormalities in the brain.
The treatment choices available for brain tumours vary based on factors such as the size, type, and location of the tumour. They may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments.
How We Treat Brain Tumor at Punarjan Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, cancer is seen as an Arbud, which can be addressed through Ayurvedic treatments. According to Ayurvedic practitioners, brain cancer stems from an imbalance in the three elemental forces known as Kapha, Pitta, and Vata, leading to the formation of round glandular growths of flesh and blood in various body parts.
At Punarjan Ayurveda, Rasayana, a fundamental Ayurvedic concept, is employed to describe techniques for regeneration and longevity. Rasayana involves the use of various medications, some of which are incorporated into a person’s regular diet, along with lifestyle adjustments such as abstaining from sexual activity, all aimed at prolonging life.
A crucial aspect of Ashtanga Ayurveda, rasayana treatment is utilised by both healthy individuals to enhance overall health and by those suffering from illness to boost their body’s power and energy, facilitating the healing process.
Rasayana Ayurveda employs herbs and Rasabhasmas to help regulate tumour growth, providing nourishment to the body tissues as part of the treatment process. Through the holistic approach of Ayurveda, Punarjan Ayurveda endeavours to offer comprehensive care and support to individuals battling brain cancer, harnessing the natural healing potential of herbs and ancient wisdom to promote healing and well-being.
Conclusion
Brain tumours can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, personality and behavioural changes, visual and auditory disturbances, motor skill impairments, cognitive changes, and seizures.
The timely identification of brain tumoursis essential for effective treatment. If you experience any of the brain tumour warning signs, it is essential to consult a doctor.
FAQ
How can you detect brain tumours early?
Early detection of brain tumours can be challenging, but being aware of the brain tumour warning signs and symptoms is crucial. If you experience persistent and severe headaches, unexplained personality or behavioural changes, visual disturbances, seizures, or problems with coordination,
What is the biggest symptom of a brain tumour?
The most common and significant symptom of a brain tumour is persistent and severe headaches, significantly if they worsen over time, occur in the morning, or are accompanied by nausea and vomiting. However, it’s important to note that the symptoms of a brain tumour can vary depending on the tumour’s location, size, and type.
What test confirms a brain tumour?
The most common way to confirm the presence of a brain tumour is through imaging tests, particularly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Once an MRI shows that there is a tumour in the brain, a biopsy is usually recommended to determine the type and grade of the tumour.
How long a brain tumor patient can live?
The prognosis for a brain tumour patient can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of tumour, its location, and the individual’s overall health. Some brain tumours are benign and can be successfully treated, while others are more aggressive.
Discussing prognosis and treatment options with a healthcare provider is essential, as they can provide personalised information based on the specific circumstances.
Why do brain tumours happen?
The precise cause of brain tumours is frequently unclear. However, certain risk factors, such as exposure to radiation, family history of brain tumours, and genetic conditions, may increase the risk of developing a brain tumour.
Are all brain tumours cancerous?
No, not all brain tumours are cancerous. In fact, about two-thirds of brain tumours are benign, meaning they are noncancerous. However, both benign and cancerous brain tumours can cause symptoms and require medical attention.
