Brain tumors may occur at any age, but the most common brain tumors among children and teenagers are ependymomas, astrocytomas, brain gliomas, and medulloblastomas, says the American Brain Tumor Association. The symptoms of brain tumor vary considerably in teenagers, depending on the location and size of the tumor. Some of these symptoms can mimic the symptoms of other common illnesses such as migraine or stomach flu. The main difference between brain tumor symptoms and those of other illnesses is that the brain tumor symptoms get worse and more frequent over time.
Headaches and Nausea
According to CancerHelp.org, one of the main symptoms of brain tumors are strong headaches. They result from a pressure that the growing tumor is causing to the brain. Frequently, the headaches are accompanied by nausea and vomiting. These symptoms are usually worst in the morning. Anything that increases the pressure inside the head, such as coughing, sneezing and bending over, typically worsens the symptoms.
Seizures
Seizures are commonly reported by the brain tumor patient, says the Mayo Clinic. They may cause loss of consciousness, convulsions, and loss of bowel control. Seizures may progress rapidly or slowly over time. They may be caused by scar tissue that develops after brain surgery, or result from the increased pressure in the head. Seizures can be helped with epilepsy medication. Patients with frontal lobe tumors may experience unusual seizure symptoms that can resemble those seen in mentally ill patients. Teenagers with frontal lobe tumors may, for example, cry, laugh, or scream during the seizures.
Changes in Personality and Cognitive Symptoms
Especially if the brain tumor is in the frontal lobe, the teenager may experience changes in her personality, says the Mayo Clinic. She may become hostile and aggressive without a reason. It is also common for the patient to act in a unusually uninhibited way. Some patients suffer from learning difficulties and memory problems. If the tumor is located on the left side of the head, the teenager may have language related problems. She may have difficulties producing or understanding language. If the tumor is in the occipital lobe, the patient may suffer from blurred or double vision.
