A meningioma is a tumor that affects the meninges, which is the covering that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. Even if this type of tumor is benign, it can still cause problems if it presses on the brain or spinal cord nerves. The type and severity of symptoms you experience depends on the size of the tumor, and in what part of the central nervous system it is located. Because early treatment improves the chances of a positive outcome, see your physician right away if you recognize the signs and symptoms.
General Symptoms
If you think you have a meningioma, your doctor can do scans to help confirm a diagnosis. Brigham and Women's Hospital states that common early signs include seizures, headaches, loss of vision, arm or leg weakness, memory loss, or inability to maintain balance and coordinate movement. If the tumor grows slowly, these symptoms may be subtle for years before you are diagnosed.
Additional Symptoms
If the tumor presses on the areas of the brain that control your senses, you may experience a diminished ability to taste, smell or hear. If the tumor is growing near the face, you may have numbness or weakness in your facial muscles, along with facial pain and muscle spasms. You can also develop pain in your back, legs or arms depending on the location of the meningioma. In some cases, speech can be affected.
Other Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, a meningioma can also cause personality changes, trouble swallowing and extreme fatigue. You may have trouble finding words, concentrating on tasks and using good judgment. You may lose your sense of touch and develop numbness in various areas of the body. The Brain Science Foundation claims that your symptoms may not be noticeable until the tumor is quite large.
