Doctor explains 9 hidden signs of brain tumors including headaches and forgetfulness

Many people ignore early symptoms of brain tumors. A doctor breaks down hidden signs like headaches and forgetfulness you should never overlook. (Image: Pexels)

A brain tumour is a collection of cells in the brain that grow abnormally and uncontrollably. These masses can be noncancerous (benign) or cancerous, but both may create pressure within the skull and produce a range of neurological symptoms. The difficulty is that brain tumour symptoms can be similar to those of everyday conditions such as migraines, tiredness or anxiety and so, early diagnosis is a challenge. Early detection of subtle signs is important to facilitate timely medical care.

The location of a brain tumour also varies, depending on how it will affect different parts of the brain that control movement, speech, memory or coordination. If detected early, treatment (surgery, medication and/or radiation) is far more effective. Preventive health routine and watching recurring or unexplained symptoms are paramount for catching the disease early.

Headaches might be one of the most common symptoms, however, they must not be overlooked when they are persistent, severe or associated with other neurological signs. Dr Arvind Kumar, Senior Neurologist at Felix Care Hospital, Indore told Moneycontrol, subtle, lingering symptoms are frequently ignored until they progress and it is then too late for timely diagnosis and treatment.

• Persistent or Unusual Headaches

Chronic headaches that become more severe over time (especially in the morning or when you cough, sneeze or change position), could be a sign of increased pressure inside your skull.

• Memory Loss and Confusion

Uncharacteristic of her forgetfulness or lack of concentration, if she’s been less stressed out than usual, may indicate that a tumour is interfering with the cognitive centres in her brain.

• Sudden Vision or Hearing Changes

Blurry vision, double vision or hearing loss without an apparent cause can be signs of pressure on nerves associated with sensation.

• Unexplained Nausea and Vomiting

If nausea or vomitinghappens when there’s no problem with your stomach, it could be a sign that the increased pressure in your skull is being affected by a tumour.

• Balance or Coordination Issues

Difficulty in walking straight or according pattern,stumbling too often or attaining hand-eye coordination and so on can be a result of tumour around the cerebellum.

• Seizures or Jerky Movements

What is it: Sudden unexplained seizures (especially in adults without a history of an epileptic disorder) can be a major red flag for abnormal brain activity.

• Speech Difficulties

Difficulty in finding words or comprehending language might indicate a tumour of the speech or comprehension areas.

• Personality or Mood Changes

Unexplained grumpiness, mood swingsor depression may point towards a tumour impinging areas affecting mood control.

• Weakness or Numbness in Limbs

Gradual weakness or numbness on one side of their body can be a symptom that is suggestive of tumour pressing on areas responsible for motor control.

These symptoms can have many causes but if they are long-lasting or occur in combination you should see your doctor. Brain tumours can be treatable, particularly if caught early. It means awareness, personal health checks and timely check-ups by specialists are still the best front against a late diagnosis with complications.

A brain tumour is a collection of cells in the brain that grow abnormally and uncontrollably, which can be either noncancerous (benign) or cancerous.

Early detection is crucial as it allows for more effective treatment and can prevent complications caused by delayed diagnosis.

Common symptoms include persistent headaches, memory loss, confusion, vision or hearing changes, unexplained nausea and vomiting, balance or coordination issues, seizures, speech difficulties, personality or mood changes, and weakness or numbness in limbs.

You should see a doctor if you experience long-lasting or combined symptoms that are unusual or unexplained.

Treatment options include surgery, medication, and radiation, with early detection greatly improving effectiveness.