Common Symptoms of Brain Tumours and When to See a Neurologist

Dr.Madhukar Bhardwaj, 2 mins read

Have you ever experienced persistent headaches, unexplained dizziness, or sudden changes in your vision or speech? Most of the time, these symptoms are harmless and related to stress, fatigue, or minor illnesses. However, in rare cases, they could be signs of a serious condition like a brain tumour. Brain tumours are abnormal growths of cells in the brain, and recognizing their warning signs early can make a huge difference in treatment and recovery. While brain tumours are not very common, it’s important to be aware of symptoms and know when to consult a specialist. 

Common Symptoms of Brain Tumours

• Persistent Headaches: Frequent headaches that do not improve with regular painkillers can be a warning sign. These headaches may be worse in the morning or when lying down. Unlike typical headaches, they may gradually increase in intensity over time.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Unexplained nausea and vomiting, especially when accompanied by headaches, could indicate increased pressure in the brain caused by a tumour.
• Seizures: Sudden seizures or convulsions in adults who have never had them before are a common symptom of brain tumours. Seizures may involve shaking, loss of consciousness, or unusual sensations.
• Vision and Hearing Problems: Blurred or double vision, loss of peripheral vision, or sudden hearing difficulties can be signs that a tumour is affecting the areas of the brain responsible for these senses.
• Changes in Speech or Understanding: Difficulty speaking clearly, finding the right words, or understanding simple conversations can be caused by tumours in language-related areas of the brain.
• Weakness or Numbness: Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs, especially on one side of the body, may indicate that a tumour is pressing on nerves controlling movement.
• Balance and Coordination Issues: Problems with walking, balance, or hand-eye coordination can occur if a tumour affects the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for these functions.
• Personality or Memory Changes: Brain tumours can sometimes cause noticeable changes in mood, behavior, or memory. Family members may notice a loved one becoming unusually irritable, confused, or forgetful.

When to See a Neurologist

It is important not to panic if you experience one or two of these symptoms occasionally, as many of them can be caused by less serious conditions. However, you should consult a neurologist promptly if you notice:

• Persistent or worsening headaches
• Frequent nausea and vomiting without an apparent cause
• Sudden seizures or convulsions
• Rapid changes in vision, hearing, speech, or personality
• Weakness, numbness, or loss of coordination
  

A neurologist can perform the necessary tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the right treatment. Early detection is crucial in improving outcomes, as some brain tumours can be treated more effectively if caught early.

Conclusion

Brain tumours are relatively rare, so awareness of their symptoms is vital. If you experience persistent or unusual neurological symptoms, seeking medical advice immediately can make a significant difference.  It is always better to get checked and be reassured than to ignore warning signs.