Your body may not give you pronounced signs of brain tumours. Because early symptoms often overlap with common issues like stress or tiredness. However, certain subtle changes might signal something deeper, and spotting them early could make all the difference:
Brain tumour is often not about collapsing or intense pain, it’s about the simple signs that sneak into daily life. From dull headaches to word slips, early symptoms are easy to brush off. But spotting them early, can be the difference between a manageable diagnosis and something far more advanced.
The early signs of brain tumour often resemble everyday health issues. A dull headache, forgetfulness, can seem like stress or a busy week. Dr. (Prof.) Kunal Bahrani, Clinical Director, Neurology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Faridabad, says, “A tumour can press on sensitive brain regions, disrupting function without causing immediate alarm.” If a symptom lingers, worsens, or appears alongside other signs, it could be time to pay closer attention.
Brain tumours affect different parts of the brain, which is why their symptoms vary. A tumour pressing near the optic nerve can cause vision issues, while one near the frontal lobe might affect mood or speech. “Many patients come in after months of subtle changes,” says Dr. Bahrani, “often not realising how long the symptoms have been building.”
Also Read: Common causes of headaches: Blame it on your food, sleep, hydration habits
Dr Bahrain shares early brain tumour signs and symptoms:
Notice worsening headaches: Frequent headaches that grow stronger over time, especially when you bend forward or wake up, might signal a rise in intracranial pressure.
Watch for vision changes: Double vision, blurry sight, or peripheral vision loss that can't be explained by an eye condition could mean something pressing on the optic pathway.
Take seizures seriously: New-onset seizures in someone without epilepsy should always raise a red flag. “Even brief twitching or staring episodes can be tumour-related,” notes Dr. Bahrani.
Don’t ignore nausea: Persistent nausea or vomiting, especially in the morning, may be linked to pressure changes inside the skull due to a growing mass.
Track mood shifts: Sudden irritability, depression, or emotional withdrawal can stem from changes in the frontal or temporal lobes. “It's not always psychological,” adds Dr. Bahrani.
Check your memory: Struggling to focus, recall simple things, or follow conversations may suggest a tumour affecting the cognitive parts of your brain.
Watch speech patterns: Slurred words, fumbling mid-sentence, or trouble naming objects might seem minor but could signal deeper neurological involvement.
Note any weakness: Feeling weak or numb on one side of the body, even if it comes and goes, may indicate a tumour on or near the motor cortex.
Be alert to balance issues: Dizziness, imbalance, or falling unexpectedly might be more than fatigue, tumours in the cerebellum often affect coordination early on.
Listen for hearing loss: Gradual hearing loss or a persistent ringing, particularly in one ear, might point to pressure on the auditory nerve.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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