We often get headaches. Some people don't even pay much attention to it and take a painkiller to get by. But sometimes these seemingly normal symptoms can be a sign of a serious problem inside our body. Today we are talking about one such serious condition, brain cancer, and the symptoms that may arise from it. It is very important to be aware of this, because the earlier it is detected, the easier it is to treat.
But first, not all brain tumors cause symptoms. Sometimes, doctors find tumors, such as pituitary tumors, by chance during a CT scan or MRI for another condition. Also, don't be afraid to assume that cancer is the cause of any of the symptoms described in this article. Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. The only way to know for sure what the real cause of your symptoms is to see a doctor and get the necessary tests done.
Why do these symptoms occur when a brain tumor develops?
Simply put, there are two main reasons for this. Think of your brain as a very complex, busy computer system.
1. Tumor pressing on parts of the brain: Now, what happens if something unwanted, a tumor, develops inside this computer system? As the tumor grows, it starts pressing on important parts of the brain and taking up space in them. For example, if the part that controls speech is pressed, stuttering and slurred speech may occur. If pressure is placed on the part that controls walking, walking difficulties may occur.
2. Brain swelling: When a tumor forms, the brain tissue surrounding the tumor begins to swell (inflammation) in response. This swelling can increase pressure inside the brain, causing various symptoms.
These symptoms are very similar in both primary brain cancer and metastatic brain cancer.
What are the most common symptoms of brain cancer?
Let's now look at the symptoms that are commonly seen in this condition. Some symptoms appear very slowly, gradually. So you or your family may not notice the difference at first. But rarely, these symptoms may appear suddenly, like in a stroke.
| Type of symptom | Examples and explanations |
|---|---|
| The main features that are often seen |
|
| Other non-specific features |
|
Emergency Signs That You Should Go to the Hospital Immediately
These symptoms are an emergency. If you or someone close to you has any of these symptoms, do not waste time and go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately.
Staying at home or using familiar medications in a situation like this can be very dangerous. So be aware of these symptoms.
| Situations when emergency treatment should be sought | |
|---|---|
| Persistent vomiting that cannot be explained. | Double vision or sudden blurring of vision in one eye. |
| Unusually sleepy or lethargic feeling. | Having a new seizure for the first time in life. |
| A sudden, significant change in the pattern of your headaches (e.g., more severe than usual, pain that feels different). | |
If you already know you have a brain tumor...
If you have already been diagnosed by doctors with a brain tumor and are receiving treatment, if any of the following new symptoms appear, or if an existing symptom suddenly worsens, this is also a situation where you should go to the ETU immediately.
- A new seizure occurs.
- Changes in mental status (e.g., excessive sleepiness, problems with memory, inability to concentrate).
- New changes in vision or other senses (hearing, smell, taste).
- Difficulty speaking or expressing ideas.
- Obvious changes in behavior or personality.
- New difficulty or hesitation when walking.
- Persistent nausea or vomiting (especially in middle-aged or elderly people).
- Sudden fever after chemotherapy.
Take-Home Message
- Not all brain tumors cause symptoms. Some are discovered incidentally during other tests.
- Always be aware of symptoms such as headaches, weakness, difficulty walking, and changes in vision.
- The most important thing is, if you suspect a new, unusual, or increasing symptom, don't ignore it.
- If you have any doubts, do not make decisions on your own or self-medicate, but immediately consult your family doctor and seek the necessary advice. Your health is valuable to you.
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