Early Brain Tumor Symptoms

Early brain tumor symptoms vary a great deal from patient to patient. The exact symptoms depend on the size, type and location of the tumor.

Brain Tumor Facts
Annually in the United States, brain tumors account for 1 out of every 100 cancers diagnosed. Of those that are diagnosed with brain tumors, about half are benign, non-cancerous tumors that grow slowly and respond well to treatment. Brain tumor treatments in these cases generally involve highly focused radiation that shrinks the tumor.

Brain tumors occur as a direct result of abnormal cell growth on the brain or areas adjacent to it. This growth can occur spontaneously or be the result of cancer that has spread from other areas of the body.

Tumors can destroy brain tissue and cause problems in other parts of the body. They can also cause problems by putting pressure on part of the brain, impeding its function. Early symptoms are often vague, and will vary depending on the affected part of the brain. Early on, symptoms can be dismissed as signs of fatigue or other illnesses. As the tumor grows, the severity of the symptoms will increase.

People with brain tumors are often diagnosed with another condition. The early headaches of a brain tumor may be diagnosed as migraines or sinus infections. For headache sufferers, it is important to note that most tumor-related headaches occur suddenly and cause extreme pain. If you have battled headaches all your life, it is unlikely that they are caused by a tumor.

Persons who have symptoms that do not go away should see their doctor immediately. In general, brain cancer symptoms include:  

• Headaches, especially one that is persistent and is worse in the morning. Any headache that is increasing in frequency and severity or is in an unusual area should be investigated.
• Nausea or vomiting with no underlying illness
• Dizziness
• Seizures, when there is no underlying condition or history of seizures
• Difficulty with speech
• Loss of movement or feeling in extremities
• Changes in mood or personality
• Depression and anxiety
• Sudden inability to concentrate
• Loss of memory.  
• Blurred vision, double vision or loss of peripheral vision
• Slow loss of sensation or movement in an arm or a leg
• Difficulty with balance
• Speech difficulties
• Confusion in everyday matters
• Personality or behavior changes
• Hearing problems
• Hormonal disorders

Note that only a few of these symptoms may be present. It's also important to note that similar symptoms can occur after a mild stroke or a moderate head injury. Even if you think you know the cause of the symptoms, it's a good idea to see a doctor if you experience them, to be sure there isn't damage to the brain or swelling that could threaten your life.