A brain tumor is a mass or collection of abnormal cells that grow abnormally and out of control. Tumors that form in the brain are referred to as primary tumors. A tumor can also be initiated in tissues outside of the brain and then spread to the brain. Some brain tumors are malignant, or cancerous, and others are benign and not aggressive. Each brain tumor is somewhat unique and the symptoms that present are determined by its size and location within the brain. Treatment depends on the tumor's individual characteristics.
Headaches
According to the American Brain Tumor Association, headaches are one of the most common initial symptoms of a brain tumor. Most people suffering from this condition describe their headaches as worse in the morning and improving throughout the day. Headaches are extremely common and can result from many different conditions, but anyone affected by new or worsening headache symptoms should consult a doctor. Headaches caused by a tumor may awaken an individual from sleep and will often be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Another clue that a headache may be associated with a brain tumor is that it worsens with activity, sneezing, coughing, or a change in position.
Seizures
The American Brain Tumor Association states that about one-third of individuals who have a brain tumor are unaware of it until they experience a seizure. A seizure is caused by a distortion or disruption of normal electrical activity in the brain. This disruption causes a variety of symptoms such as convulsions, loss of consciousness, confusion or a simple staring spell. Individuals who experience new seizures should suspect a brain tumor until it is ruled out.
Personality Changes
As a brain tumor grows in size, it puts pressure on portions of the brain, or invades brain tissue itself and causes dysfunction in those areas, according to the National Cancer Institute. Personality, thoughts, reasoning, moods and emotions are all controlled by very specific parts of the brain and can be affected by a tumor. Friends or family members may notice personality changes in the affected patient as the tumor grows.
Physical Changes
In addition to changes in personality, there are many physical changes that may occur as brain tissue is affected by a tumor. These physical changes depend completely on the area of the brain in which the tumor occurs. One common symptom is a loss of coordination or balance when walking, according to the National Brain Tumor Society. Loss of sensation or feeling in the arms or legs is a sign that nerves in the brain are being compressed or affected by a tumor. MedlinePlus reports that a loss of bowel or bladder control can be related to a brain tumor. Many individuals with brain tumors also have progressive problems with vision, speech or hearing.
