All about brain tumour: Causes, symptoms and treatment strategies

Brain tumour may be the cause of memory issues, disorientation, and trouble focusing. (Image: Canva)

An abnormal cell growth or mass inside or surrounding the brain is called a brain tumour. These tumours can impact brain function and cause a range of symptoms. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Managing this dangerous medical condition can be aided by being aware of the causes, identifying the symptoms, and being aware of the available treatments and preventative actions.

Causes of brain tumours

Genetic factors: Some brain tumours are linked to genetic conditions. Disorders such as neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome can increase the risk of developing brain tumours, says Dr Aditya Gupta, director of neurosurgery and cyberknife at Artemis hospital Gurugram.

Environmental factors: One established risk factor for brain tumours is exposure to high doses of ionising radiation, such as that which is received during radiation therapy used to treat other cancers, says Dr Gupta. It is currently unknown how other environmental elements, such as exposure to certain chemicals or electromagnetic waves, play a part.

Age and gender: Although brain tumours can happen to anyone at any age, some forms are more prevalent in particular age ranges. For example, gliomas are more common in adults, whereas medulloblastomas are more common in youngsters. In general, brain tumors in men are more common than in women.

Symptoms of brain tumours

Headaches: Frequent or severe headaches that are different from regular headaches can be a symptom of a brain tumour. These headaches may worsen in the morning or with physical activity.

Neurological symptoms

Seizures: Uncontrollably abrupt electrical disruptions in the brain can result in seizures.

Cognitive changes: A brain tumour may be the cause of memory issues, disorientation, and trouble focusing.

Sensory and motor loss: This might include speaking difficulties, balance issues, or loss of feeling or movement in an arm or leg.

Vision and hearing problems: Changes in vision, such as double vision or loss of peripheral vision, and hearing loss can be symptoms of a brain tumour, especially if they are localised to one side.

Treatment of brain tumours

Surgery: Treatment usually begins with surgically removing the tumor, particularly if it is easily accessible and can be removed without endangering nearby brain tissue.

Radiation therapy: High-energy beams are used in radiation therapy to destroy tumor cells. It is frequently used as a primary treatment when surgery is not an option, or after surgery to target any residual malignant cells.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be administered orally or intravenously and is often used in combination with surgery and radiation therapy.

Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells without harming normal cells. This treatment is based on specific genetic changes in the tumour cells.

Prevention of brain tumours

Avoiding radiation exposure: The chance of acquiring brain cancers can be decreased by limiting exposure to ionizing radiation, particularly during pointless medical imaging exams.

Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help reduce the risk of various cancers, including brain tumours.

Regular medical checkups: Regular checkups and being aware of family medical history can help in early detection and treatment of brain tumours.

Complex in nature, brain tumours can significantly affect one's health and quality of life. The key to managing this ailment is being aware of the reasons, identifying the symptoms, and getting treatment as soon as possible.