A brain tumor is a mass of abnormal cells that grow in the brain. These cells grow rapidly and invade healthy brain tissue. Brain tumors can be non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). They may originate in the brain (primary) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic).
While the exact cause is unknown, researchers believe primary brain tumors arise from mutations in normal brain cells that cause uncontrolled growth. Tumors can develop in any part of the brain or spinal cord, affecting vital functions.
Warning Signs of a Brain Tumor
Most brain tumors are asymptomatic initially. Symptoms appear when the tumor grows and exerts pressure on brain tissue. Because symptoms are often non-specific, they are frequently recognized only in hindsight.
Here are five key warning signs that should prompt medical evaluation:
Seizures
“Two in three people diagnosed with a brain tumor will experience at least one seizure.”
Seizures are sudden, involuntary muscle movements caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. A tumor can disrupt normal brain activity and trigger seizures.
Seizures may indicate:
- A slow-growing, low-grade tumor
- A tumor in the cerebrum (frontal part of the brain) or meninges
Headaches
“About 50% of people with a brain tumor experience headaches.”
Tumors can increase intracranial pressure by blocking cerebrospinal fluid flow (hydrocephalus) or pressing on nerves and blood vessels.
Headaches linked to brain tumors are often:
- Worse in the morning
- Aggravated by coughing, bending, or straining
- Accompanied by nausea or vomiting
- Not relieved by painkillers
Uncoordinated Limb Movements or Altered Body Balance
Trouble with mobility, coordination, or balance may signal a tumor, especially in the cerebellum. This often affects one side of the body.
Behavioral Changes
Tumors in the frontal or temporal lobes can disrupt personality and behavior. Common changes include:
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Short-term memory loss
- Problems with thinking, speaking, or articulation
- Mood swings
Vision Changes
“One in three patients with a brain tumor report vision problems.”
Tumors in the temporal lobe, occipital lobe, or brain stem can compress the optic nerve, causing:
- Blurred or double vision
- Partial or complete vision loss
- Sensitivity to light
- Rapid eye movements
- Dry eyes
Other possible symptoms: Unexplained nausea/vomiting, hearing problems, stiffness or tingling on one side, anxiety, or depression.
These signs don’t always mean a brain tumor—conditions like vitamin deficiencies, dehydration, or mental health issues can cause similar symptoms. However, ignoring them can delay diagnosis. Early detection improves outcomes significantly.
Diagnosis of Brain Tumor
If a brain tumor is suspected, a doctor will conduct a neurological exam to assess vision, hearing, balance, and coordination.
Further tests may include:
- CT or MRI scan: To locate the tumor.
- Biopsy: Removal and examination of a small tissue sample, either during surgery or as a standalone procedure.
Grades of Brain Tumor
Tumors are graded based on how abnormal the cells appear and how quickly they grow:
- Grade I: Non-cancerous, slow-growing, non-infiltrative. Often curable with surgery.
- Grade II: Low-grade, slow-growing, somewhat infiltrative. May recur as higher-grade.
- Grade III: Malignant, actively dividing, infiltrative. Likely to recur, often as a higher grade.
- Grade IV: Highly malignant, rapid growth, widely infiltrative. Spreads quickly within the brain.
Treatment of Brain Tumor
Treatment depends on tumor size, grade, and type. Options include:
Surgery
Often the first step, especially for low-grade tumors. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without damaging healthy tissue. Surgery can relieve symptoms, provide tissue for diagnosis, and guide further treatment.
Radiation Therapy
Uses high-energy beams (X-rays, gamma rays) to destroy tumor cells. Can be external (from outside the body) or internal (brachytherapy). Side effects may include fatigue, headaches, memory issues, and scalp irritation.
Chemotherapy
Uses drugs to stop tumor cells from growing and dividing. Often given after surgery and/or radiation, especially for recurrent tumors. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, and hair loss.
Immunotherapy
Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Used mainly for brain metastases from cancers like lung or skin cancer.
Targeted Therapy
Targets specific genes, proteins, or tissue environments that support tumor growth. Requires testing the tumor to identify targets. Minimizes damage to healthy cells.
While brain tumors cannot be prevented, early diagnosis and proper treatment improve outcomes and may reduce the risk of metastasis.