A brain tumor can be hard to detect because the symptoms often look like other common health issues.
Here are some crucial things to know about warning signs, diagnosis, and when to see a doctor.
Headaches
More than half of people with brain tumors experience headaches that tend to get worse over time. This happens because the tumor increases pressure inside the skull.
Seizures
About half of all people with a brain tumor will have at least one seizure. For some, a seizure might even be the first noticeable symptom.
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Vision changes
Blurry vision or other visual changes can signal that a tumor is affecting the part of the brain that controls eyesight.
Personality changes
Some people with brain tumors notice sudden changes in their mood or personality, which can easily be mistaken for stress or mental health issues.
Balance and coordination problems
A tumor can interfere with the brain’s control of movement, making it harder to keep your balance or coordinate simple tasks.
Ongoing fatigue
Extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest could be a sign that something is affecting brain function.
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Nausea and vomiting
Frequent nausea or vomiting that can’t be linked to stomach issues may, in rare cases, be related to increased pressure in the brain.
You can’t diagnose yourself
It’s impossible to diagnose a brain tumor on your own because so many other conditions cause similar symptoms.
A doctor needs to run imaging tests like MRI or CT scans.
Other conditions can look similar
Many health issues, like stroke, intracranial abscess, or pseudotumor cerebri, can cause the same symptoms as a brain tumor.
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See a doctor if symptoms persist
If you have ongoing or unusual physical, cognitive, or behavioral symptoms, get medical advice.
Only a healthcare professional can diagnose you and start the right treatment.
This article is based on information from Healthline.com.
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