Brain tumor symptoms are often mistaken for common illnesses, such as regular headaches. This is one of the main reasons brain tumors are frequently ignored until detected through medical examinations.
To ensure early and proper treatment, it’s essential to recognize the signs of a brain tumor. Here’s a comprehensive guide.
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Common Brain Tumor Symptoms to Watch Out For
A brain tumor is the growth or mass of abnormal cells within or around the brain. If left untreated, it can lead to severe and potentially fatal consequences.
Here are 10 warning signs of a brain tumor you should not ignore:
1. Headaches
Headaches are often one of the first symptoms of a brain tumor. These headaches typically become more frequent and intense over time.
They may not respond to over-the-counter pain relievers and are often accompanied by nausea or vomiting. Headaches may worsen when lying down, bending over, or straining (such as during bowel movements).
2. Seizures
Seizures caused by brain tumors can vary in form, including numbness, tingling, involuntary movements in limbs, speech difficulties, or unusual smells or tastes.
3. Changes in Mental Function, Mood, and Personality
Tumors can alter mental functions and emotional stability. Patients may become withdrawn, irritable, or less effective at work. Other symptoms include drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty thinking. Sudden onset of depression or anxiety may also signal a brain tumor.
4. Speech Difficulties
A brain tumor can cause trouble speaking, including difficulty finding words, slurred speech, or being unable to express or understand language.
5. Sensory Changes (Vision, Hearing, Smell)
Tumors may affect sensory abilities. Patients may experience double vision, blurry sight, hearing loss, or an impaired sense of smell.
6. Loss of Balance and Coordination
A tumor affecting the brain can lead to imbalance due to visual disturbances, sensory problems, or cognitive decline. Affected individuals may fall more frequently, impacting their ability to work and maintain quality of life.
7. Changes in Heart Rate and Breathing
A tumor pressing on the brainstem may cause irregular heartbeat or respiratory changes.
8. Memory Loss
While forgetfulness is common, significant memory loss could indicate a tumor.
Warning signs include:
- Forgetting names of common objects (e.g., cup, ball)
- Repeating the same questions
- Inability to perform routine tasks (e.g., using tools, buttoning shirts)
- Difficulty reading or recognizing words/numbers
9. Weakness
Tumors in the frontal lobe or brainstem can cause weakness, often on one side of the body.
10. Fatigue
The body expends extra energy fighting the tumor and repairing tissue, leading to overwhelming fatigue.
Keep in mind: These symptoms don’t always mean you have a brain tumor. Consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
Brain Tumor Diagnostics at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital
Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital features a state-of-the-art Brain Tumor Center equipped with advanced imaging tools like MRI.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides detailed images of organs and structures without using X-rays. It uses powerful magnets, radio waves, and a computer to produce clear scans—ideal for diagnosing and monitoring brain conditions.
The hospital uses the Ingenia Ambition X MRI, enhanced with Compressed Sense Technology, which speeds up the scan process by 50% and delivers higher image quality.
Patients can watch YouTube or Netflix during the procedure for comfort. The machine also has a wider bore, reducing feelings of claustrophobia.
Brain Tumor Treatments at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital
The Brain Tumor Center offers several advanced treatment options:
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Awake Brain Surgery
A groundbreaking procedure performed while the patient is conscious. Ideal for tumors near areas controlling speech, movement, or other vital functions.
The patient receives local anesthesia and feels no pain, while doctors can monitor brain function in real time.
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Transnasal Endoscopic Surgery
A minimally invasive approach using a flexible endoscope through the nose. Commonly used to remove pituitary tumors or sample tissues without opening the skull.
Benefits include faster recovery, fewer complications, and minimal scarring compared to traditional brain surgery.
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SRS Brain Radiotherapy
A non-invasive, high-precision radiation therapy targeting brain tumors, cancers, or abnormalities—no surgery required.
To consult with a brain tumor specialist, visit Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital. Use the WhatsApp Chat, Book Appointment feature, or download the Care Dokter App via Google Play or App Store for easier appointment scheduling, queue tracking, and more information.
