Doctors classify brain tumors as cancerous, also known as malignant, or noncancerous, also known as benign. Because the brain resides in the rigid skull that restricts expansion, the growth of any type of tumor can be serious. Terminal brain cancer describes a malignant brain tumor that fails to respond to treatment and will lead to death. The symptoms caused by terminal brain cancer resemble the symptoms of any brain tumor, which vary depending on the size of the tumor, the growth rate and the location within the brain, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Headaches
As the tumor of brain cancer grows larger, the pressure within the skull increases. The increase in pressure results in headaches, the most common and often first noticeable symptom of brain cancer, according to Merck. Although many conditions cause headaches, and headaches rarely signal a serious condition, according to MedlinePlus, headaches that recur more frequently over time may indicate brain cancer. Once a tumor becomes large enough to cause terminal cancer, the headaches may become constant, worsen when lying down, feel severe enough to awaken the patient from sleep or feel worse first thing in the morning.
Balance Problems
The portion of the brain known as the cerebellum, or hindbrain, controls balance and coordination. A tumor that causes pressure on the cerebellum can interfere with balance. As the tumor grows larger, the patient may exhibit unsteadiness when walking. Vertigo, the sensation of movement, can also occur, which can affect balance.
Nausea
Terminal brain cancer can cause unexplained nausea often accompanied with vomiting. The nausea may occur due to the severe headaches or due to the feelings of vertigo.
Behavioral Changes
The brain controls mood, behavior and mental abilities. Patients suffering from terminal brain cancer exhibit behavior changes such as becoming withdrawn and moody. Behavioral changes may cause the patient to feel drowsy and confused, leaving them unable to think clearly. These changes can interfere with their ability to perform duties at work as well as their personal relationships. Many display bizarre behavior and fail to realize that their behavior appears out of the ordinary.
Sensory Impairments
All sensory input travels to the brain for interpretation. This includes visual input, sounds, smells, sensations of touch and tastes. Depending on the location of the tumor, one or more of these senses may become impaired. Tumors that place pressure on the frontal lobe of the brain may interfere with the sense of smell or sight, according to Cancer Research UK. Tumors that affect the occipital lobe and temporal lobe may also cause visual impairments that may include blurred vision, double vision or the loss of peripheral vision.
