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A brain tumor is defined as an abnormal growth of cells within or near the brain. These tumors can be either cancerous or non-cancerous, with cancerous tumors typically progressing more rapidly than non-cancerous ones, which usually grow slowly. While headaches are one of the most common symptoms, present in nearly half of those with brain tumors, other symptoms vary based on the tumor’s location. These symptoms can include seizures, weakness or numbness in the limbs, imbalance while walking, hearing loss, behavioral changes, double vision, memory loss, and headaches. Depending on the tumor’s location, the symptoms can vary widely and may sometimes be unexpected, making it difficult for individuals to associate them with a brain tumor.
Surprising Signs of a Brain Tumor
- Abnormal Behavior: Patients may exhibit changes such as becoming silent, uncooperative, disinterested in their surroundings, agitated, or confused. These individuals might be misdiagnosed by psychiatrists or physicians who start medication without conducting radiological investigations. While there may be temporary improvement, their condition often deteriorates rapidly. Such symptoms are commonly associated with tumors in the frontal lobes.
- Peripheral Vision Loss: Tumors exerting pressure on the optic pathway can cause various types of vision loss. Partial vision loss can be easily overlooked or misdiagnosed by both patients and eye surgeons. Many patients experience significant vision loss before undergoing a brain MRI. A common example is a pituitary tumor.
- Hormonal Disturbances: Patients may experience menstrual irregularities, infertility, galactorrhea, stunted growth, thyroid issues, gigantism, and other hormone-related problems. These symptoms often lead them to visit physicians, gynecologists, or endocrinologists, who might not immediately consider a brain tumor. Delays in diagnosis can make tumor removal more difficult and risky.
- Drunkard Gait: Tumors located at the back of the brain or increased brain fluid pressure can cause imbalance while walking, making it appear as though the patient is intoxicated.
- Hearing Problems: Some patients may prefer to use one ear for phone calls, unaware of the gradual hearing loss in the other ear. Tumors originating from the eighth cranial nerve can lead to hearing loss in one ear.
- Sudden Severe Headache: Some patients experience hemorrhages within pre-existing brain tumors and may present to emergency services in an unconscious state. Differentiating between a tumor hemorrhage and a hypertensive bleed can be challenging.
