1. Abnormal Proliferation of Cells
Brain tumors result from an abnormal proliferation of cells in your brain. Typically, cells grow only when needed; however, occasionally, excess cells grow and create a tumor. Brain tumors are primary or secondary, meaning they start in the brain (primary) or in another part of the body (secondary). Secondary brain tumors occur more frequently than primary brain tumors. Benign brain tumors are more common and grow slowly. A malignant tumor tends to grow quickly and spread into surrounding tissue.
2. Morning Headaches and Vision Changes
Symptoms vary depending on the location and size of the brain tumor. Worsening headaches are common and tend to be more severe in the morning. These headaches may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. A person may experience changes in vision including loss of vision, blurred vision or double vision. Speech may become slurred or difficult to produce. There may be confusion and changes in behavior or personality. Some people lose feeling in their arms or legs. Seizures, difficulties with hearing and endocrine problems may also occur.
3. The Root of the Brain Tumor
While researchers haven't identified a specific cause for primary brain tumors, risk factors have been identified. Brain tumors are more likely to develop in males and Caucasians. Age also plays a role. Brain tumors typically strike in older adults, over the age of 70. If you have a family history of glioma, a tumor that stems from glial cells, then you're at slightly greater risk for developing a brain tumor. Finally, it's thought that exposure to radiation and chemicals may contribute to increased risk for brain tumors. Specific chemicals of concern include formaldehyde, vinyl chloride and acrylonitrile.
4. Looking Into the Brain
If a doctor suspects a brain tumor, then he'll perform a neurological exam which evaluates vision, hearing, balance, reflexes and motor coordination. The doctor may also request additional tests, such as CT scan, MRI scan, angiogram, skull x-ray, myelogram, spinal tap, magnetic resonance spectroscopy and single-photon emission computerized tomography. The only way to obtain a positive diagnosis is through biopsy, which typically involves the skill of a surgeon.
5. Healing a Brain Tumor
Since brain tumors are complex, treatment requires the knowledge of a team of professionals. The treatment team typically includes a neurosurgeon, oncologist, radiologist and neurologist. Primary therapies for brain tumors include radiation and chemotherapy. If possible, doctors perform surgery to remove all or part of the tumor. Additional treatments focus on alleviating the symptoms of the brain tumor. Placing shunts in the brain drains excess fluid. Medications may include drugs to reduce seizure activity, pain and inflammation.
