Link between brain tumours and migraine

Dr.Madhukar Bhardwaj, 3 mins read

Whenever headaches last longer than usual, it always panics us. It makes us think of many conditions that could be related to it. Some of us relate this lingering pain to migraine. Others may find themselves burdened by the more alarming fear of a brain tumour. But what’s the reality? Let’s find out the answer.

Understanding migraine

Migraine is a type of headache. But those who have it know how severe it is. It is not like a usual headache that causes mild inconvenience and discomfort. Migraine pain is so painful that it may restrict you to bed or a chair and affect your routine activities. 

If you are confused about your headache, consult a neurologist to determine the underlying cause. It’s also important to understand that most headaches are just headaches and are not always suggestive of anything serious. Still, a doctor’s consultation is the best choice. 

Migraine symptoms 

There are four stages of migraines, each having its own symptoms. However, not all people with migraines go through all stages. Here are the common symptoms of each stage. 

• Stage 1 - Prodrome (1-2 days before migraine): Constipation, mood changes, food cravings, fluid retention, neck stiffness, frequent yawning, and increased urination.
• Stage 2 - Aura (Happens before and during a migraine attack; it begins gradually and lasts up to 60 minutes): Vision problem (Vision loss, seeing bright spots, or seeing flashes of light); problem with speaking; numbness or weakness in face or one side of the body; and needles like sensation in arms.
• Stage 3 - Migraine attack (It happens for 4 to 72 hours if left untreated; some occur rarely while others happen several times a month): Throbbing pain on one or both sides of the brain; sensitivity to light, sound, smell or touch; nausea, and vomiting. 
• Stage 4 - Post-drome (Happens after a migraine attack): Feeling drained, confused, and washed out, and pain while moving the head. 

Understanding brain tumours

A brain tumour is an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the brain or around it. Tumours that start in the brain are called primary brain tumours. Sometimes the brain tumour starts somewhere else in the body and then spreads to the brain. This is called metastatic brain tumours.

Brain tumour symptoms

Symptoms of a brain tumour depend on its size and location. Here are its common symptoms: 

• Persistent headaches (often worse in the morning, or feel like tension headaches or migraines)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Weakness or numbness in parts of the body 
• Vision problem (Blurry vision, double vision, and vision loss)
• Difficulty with balance or coordination
• Fatigue 
• Speech problems
• Confusion and memory problems
• Feeling very hungry or gaining weight 
• Hearing problems

Link between migraine and brain tumours

Sometimes migraine pain is so painful that people relate it to something serious, like a brain tumour. That is sometimes even true. Initially, a brain tumour doesn’t cause pain, but as it progresses, it causes pain like migraine. But the real question is whether migraine leads to a brain tumour.  

To your relief, there is no solid evidence that concludes migraine causes a brain tumour. But always look at the symptoms mentioned above. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a doctor for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Also Read: 8 Ways to keep your brain sharp as you age