What are the common symptoms of a brain tumor. How can persistent headaches be differentiated from more serious conditions. When should you seek medical attention for neurological symptoms. What diagnostic tests are used to identify brain tumors.

Understanding Brain Tumor Symptoms and Their Impact

Brain tumors can manifest through a variety of symptoms, often mimicking other conditions and making diagnosis challenging. Recognizing these symptoms and understanding their implications is crucial for early detection and proper treatment.

Common Brain Tumor Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Changes in vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Cognitive changes
• Balance and coordination problems
• Personality changes

Are all headaches a sign of a brain tumor. No, most headaches are not caused by brain tumors. However, persistent headaches that worsen over time, especially when accompanied by other neurological symptoms, warrant medical attention.

Differentiating Migraines from Brain Tumor Headaches

Migraines and brain tumor headaches can share some similarities, making it difficult for patients and healthcare providers to distinguish between them. However, there are key differences that can help in the diagnostic process.

Characteristics of Migraine Headaches

• Often one-sided
• Pulsating or throbbing pain
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Nausea and vomiting
• Visual auras in some cases
• Usually respond to migraine medications

Characteristics of Brain Tumor Headaches

• Persistent and progressive
• Often worse in the morning or when lying down
• May be accompanied by neurological symptoms
• Usually do not respond well to typical headache medications
• Can be aggravated by coughing, sneezing, or physical activity

Can brain tumor headaches come and go. While brain tumor headaches are typically persistent, they can fluctuate in intensity. The key difference is that they tend to worsen over time and are often accompanied by other neurological symptoms.

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis and Medical Evaluation

When experiencing persistent neurological symptoms, seeking proper medical evaluation is crucial. Healthcare providers use a combination of clinical examination, patient history, and diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of symptoms.

Steps in the Diagnostic Process

1. Thorough medical history
2. Neurological examination
3. Vision and eye tests
4. Blood tests
5. Imaging studies (CT scan, MRI)
6. Biopsy (if necessary)

Why is early diagnosis of brain tumors important. Early diagnosis can lead to more effective treatment options, better outcomes, and improved quality of life for patients. It also allows for prompt intervention before symptoms become severe or irreversible.

Navigating the Healthcare System: Advocating for Your Health

Patients experiencing persistent neurological symptoms often face challenges in getting the appropriate diagnostic tests and referrals. It’s important to be proactive and advocate for your health when dealing with the healthcare system.

Tips for Effective Communication with Healthcare Providers

• Keep a detailed symptom diary
• Be specific about the nature and duration of symptoms
• Mention any family history of neurological conditions
• Ask about referrals to specialists if symptoms persist
• Request explanations for diagnoses and treatment plans
• Seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns are not being addressed

Is it appropriate to request specific diagnostic tests. While healthcare providers are trained to determine the most appropriate diagnostic approach, patients have the right to discuss their concerns and ask about the rationale behind diagnostic decisions. If you feel strongly about getting a specific test, such as an MRI, it’s important to communicate this to your doctor and understand their perspective.

The Role of Imaging in Brain Tumor Diagnosis

Imaging studies play a crucial role in the diagnosis of brain tumors and other neurological conditions. Understanding the different types of imaging techniques can help patients navigate the diagnostic process more effectively.

Common Imaging Techniques for Brain Tumor Diagnosis

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan
• Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS)

Which imaging technique is most effective for diagnosing brain tumors. MRI is generally considered the gold standard for brain tumor diagnosis due to its ability to provide detailed images of brain tissue and detect smaller tumors. However, the choice of imaging technique depends on various factors, including the suspected type of tumor and the patient’s individual circumstances.

Understanding the Impact of Anxiety on Symptom Perception

Anxiety can significantly influence how we perceive and interpret physical symptoms. For individuals with a family history of brain tumors or other neurological conditions, this anxiety can be particularly intense and may even exacerbate existing symptoms.

The Relationship Between Anxiety and Physical Symptoms

• Increased sensitivity to bodily sensations
• Amplification of existing symptoms
• Development of new physical symptoms
• Difficulty distinguishing between anxiety-related and organic symptoms
• Impact on sleep and overall well-being

How can patients manage anxiety while waiting for diagnostic results. Practicing stress-reduction techniques, seeking support from loved ones, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers can help manage anxiety during the diagnostic process. It’s also important to remember that most headaches and neurological symptoms are not caused by brain tumors.

Exploring Alternative Explanations for Neurological Symptoms

While it’s important to rule out serious conditions like brain tumors, there are many other potential causes of neurological symptoms that should be considered. Understanding these alternatives can help patients and healthcare providers explore all possible explanations.

Common Causes of Neurological Symptoms

• Tension headaches
• Migraines
• Sinus infections
• Vestibular disorders
• Stress and anxiety
• Sleep disorders
• Hormonal imbalances
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Medication side effects

How do healthcare providers determine the cause of neurological symptoms. Doctors use a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests to rule out serious conditions and identify the most likely cause of symptoms. This process often involves a systematic approach to eliminate potential causes and narrow down the diagnosis.

The Importance of Follow-Up Care and Monitoring

Regardless of the initial diagnosis, ongoing monitoring and follow-up care are essential for patients experiencing persistent neurological symptoms. This approach ensures that any changes in symptoms are promptly addressed and allows for adjustments to treatment plans as needed.

Key Components of Effective Follow-Up Care

• Regular check-ins with healthcare providers
• Monitoring of symptom progression or resolution
• Adjustment of treatment plans as necessary
• Reassessment of diagnosis if symptoms persist or worsen
• Referrals to specialists when appropriate
• Patient education on symptom management and warning signs

When should patients seek additional medical attention after initial evaluation. If symptoms worsen, new symptoms develop, or there is no improvement with prescribed treatments, patients should not hesitate to seek further medical attention. It’s important to trust your instincts and advocate for your health if you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed.

Coping Strategies for Living with Uncertainty

Dealing with persistent neurological symptoms and awaiting diagnostic results can be emotionally challenging. Developing effective coping strategies can help patients manage stress and maintain their quality of life during this uncertain period.

Helpful Coping Techniques

• Mindfulness and meditation practices
• Regular exercise and physical activity
• Maintaining a support network of friends and family
• Engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy
• Seeking professional counseling or therapy if needed
• Joining support groups for individuals with similar experiences
• Practicing good sleep hygiene
• Maintaining a balanced diet

How can patients balance the need for vigilance with avoiding excessive worry. It’s important to stay informed and attentive to your health without allowing anxiety to dominate your life. Setting boundaries on health-related research, focusing on present moments, and engaging in positive activities can help strike this balance.

Understanding the Limitations of Medical Knowledge

While medical science has made significant strides in diagnosing and treating neurological conditions, there are still many unknowns in the field. Recognizing the limitations of current medical knowledge can help patients maintain realistic expectations and approach their health journey with a balanced perspective.

Challenges in Neurological Diagnosis

• Overlapping symptoms between different conditions
• Individual variations in symptom presentation
• Limitations of current diagnostic technologies
• Evolving understanding of neurological disorders
• Rare conditions that may not be immediately recognized

How do healthcare providers navigate diagnostic uncertainties. Medical professionals use a combination of clinical experience, current research, and collaborative consultation to make the best possible decisions in uncertain situations. They also rely on ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans based on patient response.

The Role of Patient Empowerment in Healthcare

Empowered patients who actively participate in their healthcare decisions often experience better outcomes and greater satisfaction with their care. Understanding your rights as a patient and developing the skills to effectively navigate the healthcare system can make a significant difference in your health journey.

Key Aspects of Patient Empowerment

• Health literacy and education
• Effective communication with healthcare providers
• Shared decision-making in treatment plans
• Understanding of patient rights and responsibilities
• Access to personal health information
• Ability to seek second opinions
• Engagement in self-management of chronic conditions

How can patients become more empowered in their healthcare decisions. Educating yourself about your health condition, asking questions during medical appointments, and actively participating in treatment decisions are all ways to become more empowered. It’s also important to remember that you have the right to seek additional opinions and advocate for your needs within the healthcare system.

Exploring Complementary and Alternative Medicine Approaches

While conventional medicine should be the primary approach for diagnosing and treating serious neurological conditions, some patients find value in exploring complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Common CAM Approaches for Neurological Symptoms

• Acupuncture
• Herbal supplements
• Massage therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Mindfulness-based stress reduction
• Yoga and tai chi
• Biofeedback
• Nutritional therapy

Is it safe to use complementary therapies alongside conventional treatments. While many CAM approaches can be safely used in conjunction with conventional treatments, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about any complementary therapies you’re considering. Some approaches may interact with medications or affect diagnostic test results, so open communication with your medical team is essential.

The Future of Brain Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment

Advancements in medical technology and research are continually improving our ability to diagnose and treat brain tumors and other neurological conditions. Staying informed about these developments can provide hope and perspective for patients navigating the diagnostic process.

Emerging Technologies in Brain Tumor Diagnosis

• Advanced imaging techniques with higher resolution
• Artificial intelligence-assisted image analysis
• Liquid biopsy for brain tumor detection
• Improved molecular and genetic testing
• Wearable devices for continuous symptom monitoring

How might future developments impact brain tumor diagnosis and treatment. Emerging technologies have the potential to enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis of brain tumors, leading to improved treatment outcomes. Additionally, personalized medicine approaches based on genetic and molecular profiling may allow for more targeted and effective therapies in the future.

As we continue to advance our understanding of neurological conditions and improve diagnostic technologies, patients can look forward to more precise and timely diagnoses. However, it’s important to remember that the journey to a diagnosis can be complex and sometimes frustrating. Patience, persistence, and open communication with healthcare providers remain crucial elements in navigating this process effectively.

Displaying symptoms of a brain tumor but nothing will help. – Ask the nurses – Cancer Chat

It started on Saturday when I got out of the shower. I had kaleidoscope vision in my right eye followed by a dull headache. The vision corrected itself after 30 minutes but the headache stayed and still have it. It gets worse everyday. I went to A&E on monday. Saw a triage nurse who gave me a appt card for an out of hrs appt at the hospital for 5.30. He said it’s a bit of a wait. I knew what time I went down to A&E but for some reason I read my time wrong. I arrived at the out of hrs appt only to be told I was 2 hrs early. I was so shocked at myself that I didn’t read the time on my phone properly and it scared me. Anyway they sent me away with imgrane pain killers which treats migraines and co-codamol. I took the medication straight away but it was not effective at all. I went to bed that night with the headache, it wakes me in the middle of the night and wakes me up in the morning. I woke up with a stiff neck one morning too. Yesterday I started having nausea with the headache by the evening I couldn’t take it anyway more so I rang 111 for the third time. They got me a out of hrs app at the hospital again. And this time dispose there being more symptoms they said it may be tension headaches and gave me a pain killer amitriptyline to take before bed. Took before bed made me little drowsy but didn’t take the pain away and woke up to the same headache still there. This morning I had a docs appt I had booked and told him everything since Saturday and he said he still thinks it’s a migraine and gave me some mouth dissolvable tabs for the sickness and 2 nostril does of migraine painkillers. Took them straight way. The anti sickness tabs did help ease the nausea and used both the nasel pain killer sprays and they had no effect. He decided to book me for a blood test to check arteries in my head. I wanted to request for a ct scan or an mri scan as that would give a better look as what’s going on as nothing is taking this pain away but everyone I see tends to pin it on something else. Stress, your too worried and that makes the headache stay. I’m also worried as I have a sister who has had 4 brain tumors and as we are so used to seeing her sympoms everytime they grow back, when this headache stayed and no pain killer is working and everyday they kept getting worse I just want a doctor to refer me to get a ct or mri scan doney to rule out anything bad. So I’m no closer to being pain free, I’m a fulltme mum of 3 so I feel guilty for resting in a dark room as I’m sensitive to light loud noises while my eldest daughter helps me take care of them, I feel I’m failing them while I’m trying everything I can do to get better. The doctor is ringing me on monday to see how I am. I guess until then I just have to put up with the pain. But feels like torture. Don’t know why they don’t just have me get a ct or mri done to have a look as nothing else is working. Something is going on and feel like I’m not being listened to. 

• 0000000Z” data-yesvotes=”0″ data-novotes=”0″>

  Hey, I understand exactly how you feel!! 
  I’m 23 and I’ve been getting headaches/pressure type pain in my head for 3 weeks. Feel like I’m struggling to read sentences in the right order and also getting words confused, aching pain behind eye comes and goes and if I cough or laugh etc then I get pain in my head. My vision is blurry especially in low light and started seeing lots of floaters/a little bit of double vision. I don’t have nausea and mine is better in the mornings but it’s still scary.

  I’ve had migraine tablets, antibiotics etc and nothing helps. I’m absolutely convinced I’ve got a brain tumour or secondary brain cancer, but nobody is taking me seriously. I had my eyes checked by a specialist who said they’re fine and not causing headaches, plus I went to a&e and got the same as you, sent to an out of hours GP who did a neurological check and said it was all fine so she couldn’t send me for a scan. 
   

  Went back to my own GP who is sending me for blood tests but also isn’t concerned based on her examination and so wouldn’t refer me for a scan either. All they say is “well you’re so young and the exam is clear. it’s so unlikely to be anything sinister” It’s so frustrating!

   

  I’ve decided to pay for my own MRI scan through a private hospital because I know that I absolutely won’t rest until I know for sure what’s going on with me. If you have the funds to do so perhaps you could look into it? At least then you’ll know either way.
   

  Aside from that, it sounds like you have a lot of anxiety around the topic that could be worse because you know the symptoms as your sister has had tumours. Maybe this is making your symptoms worse? Anxiety can be pretty powerful. Just keep on at your GP and eventually they will have to send you for more tests if you’re still feeling the same. But I agree- it feels awful when you’re convinced you have a serious problem but the GP isn’t taking you seriously.
   

  Hope you feel better soon x

• 0000000Z” data-yesvotes=”0″ data-novotes=”0″>

  Thank u for your reply

  Its good to know I’m not the only one.

  I just wish the doctor would just do a scan u rule it out at least. And wish any pain killer would just start working so the pain would go away.

  I’m supposed to be going away with my kids for a few days on holiday on Monday and I don’t want to let them down so iv got to put on a smile and shoulder on with this pain. Just wish I had answers instead of getting a run around. 

• Hello Rubia86 and thank you for your post,

  I am so sorry to hear about this terrible headache you are having. It sounds very distressing for you.

  I realise that you are worried that you could have a brain tumour and this is very understandable because of your sister’s situation. But your symptoms, no matter how awful you feel with them, do not necessarily mean you have cancer. The symptoms can be the same symptoms for non-cancerous conditions.

  I do think that you should have some reassurance that your GP does want to understand what is causing your symptoms. Have you been able to have the blood test done? When this has been done and if you still have these symptoms go back to your GP and ask if you need to have a scan, your doctor will do one if it is necessary.

  The NHS has some useful information about headaches, it may be good to read, click here to see it.

  Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

  Take care,

  Caroline

• Yeah my sister is diagnosed with benign tumours (non cancerous) im waiting on my blood test results and the doctor says he’ll ring me on Monday to check how I’m feeling. I woke this morning with no pain which I was happy about, just pressure sort of feeling but then after about half hr of me waking up the pain started up again. I had some co-codomal to see if it would take the edge of and thankfully it did a bit. The headaches are always worse in the evenings and mornings. Time will tell but hope they stop coming back soon. 

• Hi Rubia, sorry to start up your thread again, I’m just having the same worrying symptoms and wondered if you got any answers/relief? 

• Hi

  No the migraine tablets did nothing even though they were dead sure the head aches I was getting were jot budging even after trying every pain killer and prescribed migraine medication. After nearly 3 weeks non stop of hell the slow decided to diminish to nothing, I get the same pain back every now and then and I dread will it stay for weeks but it diminishes. Little to no faith in doctors, even though I was in agonising pain they could have a bit more investigation to get to the bottom of whats causing them. I would still like to know what it was and they do come back like I said but I know I won’t receive nothing but crap pain killers so it will put me off seeking n”medical attention” in the future should I need it.x

• Thank you for replying to fast. I’ve been to the doctors, opticians and eye hospital now and everyone says it’s nothing to worry about. I don’t want to go back to the gp because I know all they’ll do is pawn me off with some pain killers. So fraustrating! I hope mine decide to just disappear soon. .. it’s been 5 weeks now 🙁 

• Hi Lunafax

  i hope you don’t mind me contacting you. I just wanted to ask how you are and did you manage to get an MRI scan

  My daughter is 21 years old and has been experiencing headaches for the last 3 months. She’s also told me she’s stumbling on her words. Her eye test was fine and she’s just booked an appointment at the doctors and I’m worried sick

  kind regards x

   

   

   

• Hello there

  I am sorry to hear your daughter has been having some headaches the past few months that are concerning you both.

  Symptoms can be caused by lots of different things. Common causes for headaches are hormonal changes, stress, tension, poor posture, too much alcohol or not eating or drinking enough. It is however important to get symptoms that are ongoing checked out just to be on the safe side. It’s good news that her eye test was fine as alot can be picked up through an eye check but i’m pleased she has booked in to see her GP.

  Doctors are the best people to assess symptoms as they can then arrange further tests if needed to find out more. Hopefully they’ll be a simple and straightforward reason for the headaches and the doctor will be able to give your daughter some peace of mind.

  I hope the appointment goes well

  Best wishes

  Naomi

• Hi Naomi

  Many thanks for your kind response. She has seen the doctor and has arranged for her to get her bloods done. He’s also said he wants her to have an MRI,, which as you can imagine and thrown me into complete panic. He’s said it’s just rule out a thing sinister. My daughter has a full count blood test in April last year,, would that have showed anything that wasn’t the norm.

  I also think there’s a concern she’s having the headaches in the night which again is another symptom.

  any help or advice would be hugely appreciated 

  kind regards 

  Alison

Convinced I have a brain tumour – Pre-Diagnosis, Signs & Symptoms – Cancer Chat

Hi

I have had a headache for nearly 4 weeks now which came on quite suddenly one evening. I am also experiencing quite a lot of nausea but haven’t actually been sick. The pain in my head is a constant dull ache on my right side, my eye socket also hurts. I’ve been to the opticians who say eyes look fine. 
I am absolutely convinced I have a tumour. I have a CT scan booked but it’s 3 weeks away which seems forever. Anyone have any similar stories?x

• 0000000Z” data-yesvotes=”0″ data-novotes=”0″>

  Hi goo

  I’ll start by saying I’m not medically trained so cannot diagnose.

  I suffer from severe health anxiety which I am now  medicated for and it has helped massively. Before I was in medication I had convinced myself I had neck cancer so I paid and went private for a mri, that came back clear and within a few weeks I started having headaches daily,  my head hurt when I bent down, I had tender points on my scalp, metallic taste in my mouth, my Headaches were all on 1 side, nausea  I was getting flickering in my eye, tingles in my face. I was utterly convinced I had a brain tumour, I went to the gp who bless her probably knows me better than her some of her family lol and she looked at my eyes and told me I didn’t have a tumour, still that wasent enough to convince me even though she had been right about the list of illnesses I had convinced myself I had in the last few months so she referred to me neurology but I couldn’t wait that long so again I paid and went private and head a brain mri (may I add that my husband does not no about all these scans I’ve paid for lol he would think I’m crazy). I had to wait a few days for the results, during that time all my symptoms went away, I swear I had not even 1, not surprisingly my scan came back fine. Anxiety is a bloody horrible thing, all the times I think I’ve got a serious illness I believe I have it as I think surely anxiety can’t cause symptoms like this, but the brain is a powerful tool and I was utterly convinced I had a tumour so my brain was responding by giving me those symptoms. I’m not saying you have anxiety this is just my story and I wanted to cheer you up abit and let you no you shouldn’t worry .have you been to the gp? My gp told me even daily headaches aren’t a sign of a tumour on there own, vision is alot to do with it aswell. It sounds to me like you maybe have migraines which I’ve suffered with for years. Try not to worry love, I’m sure its nothing to worry about and I hope my story made you smile lol 

• Hi!!

  Thanks so much for your reply!

  Can I ask what medication you have for your health anxiety? I honestly think I suffer from this too.  
  A few years back I paid for a private mammogram as I’d convinced myself I had breast cancer. If I could afford it now, I would be booking a private scan!

  since lockdown, I have been to the doctors for a lump in my breast that the doctor couldn’t find. Then I had horrendous stomach pains and decided I had pancreatic cancer as that runs in the family. I have had blood tests that detect pancreatic cancer and ovarian cancer. I have also had an ambulance to the house (I called 111 and they sent it) as I thought I was having a heart attack. I realise now that what I thought were heart attacks are probably panick attacks.

  but this time I have physical pain in my head, neck, eye socket and round my ear. I have this sensation of something trickling but inside?!

  If after this scan, it comes back clear, I really need to admit I have a problem. As it is though, I cannot stop thinking about it and have become obsessed with the fact this must be something serious.

  youve made me feel loads better so thank you for taking the time to leave a message x

• 0000000Z” data-yesvotes=”0″ data-novotes=”0″>

  I’m on mirtazapine, amatriptyline, and valium. The mirtazapine is for anxiety and depression in the long term, the valium is to just calm me down when I get myself all worked up which I do on a regular basis. In the last 6 months alone I’ve been to a and e 4 times, had a chest, neck and brain mri, chest and knee xray, one of them heart trace things that they do for 24hrs, multiple blood tests. I’ve been to my drs more times than I can count, I’m on first name terms with the reception staff lol I’ve convinced myself in the last 6months I had lung cancer, ovarian cancer, a heart attack, a brain tumour, neck cancer, mouth cancer,  I’m missing a few illnesses as I’m starting to forget all the things I thought I had. My mum bless her lol I ring her pretty much everyday convinced I have a new terminal illness, she rolls her eyes at me and talks me down, she is actually a nurse and she’s like ‘Emma you do not have a brain tumour/neck cancer’ whatever is wrong with me that day. I went to a and e convinced I had ovarian cancer and the next time a brain tumour. I darenet go to my a and e department anymore for quite awhile there gonna think I’m batshit crazy if I rock up there one more time convinced I’m dying. Currently I’m on a 2 week referral for the breast clinic due to pain in my armpit, I have a large build up of fluid behind my c section scar going up into my womb (I had my 6th baby, 6months ago) and I think maybe its messing with my hormones as my periods are all over the place and I think the pain maybe due to that but my dr just wants to check it out to be sure. One thing I’ve always been told is cancer is normally painless, it grows getting bigger and stronger quietly. I honestly have never been to see my gp more than I have these last few months, I’ve heard them feeling for lumps in my neck, looking in my eyes for brain tumours, doing abdominal ultrasounds, and they’ve always been fantastic, they always refer me even when they no its nothing. I read that a good gp will refer for further investigations, do further blood work etc just to put a patients mind at rest even if they no its anxiety, and my gps have been amazing I couldn’t be at a better surgery. Maybe you should call yours and talk about getting some medication for your anxiety, honestly it’s the best thing I’ve done. I would spend hours on Google looking up every little symptom I had, spend hours worrying, paying for scans, it was taking over my whole life, now I’ve started getting my life back. I also have cancer running in my family my mum has currently got bowel cancer, her sister my aunt had breast cancer, my grandad had lung cancer and died, so it does play on my mind like it does yours but we never no whats around the corner do we? I’m the same as you my mind wont be put at rest until I’ve had the scan and got the all clear so get your brain scan and then talk to your dr about help for anxiety, I’m always here if you need to talk about anything x

• You both sound exactly like me!

  I have just convinced myself I have a brain tumour. I have had headaches for years but about a month ago I got the worst one of my life and my right eyelid started to twitch.

  the headache faded and never really went away, I was left with a constant dull ache. The. It came back again and I vomited for a whole day. I keep getting muscle twitches all over my body and this pressure/pain in my head won’t go away.

   

  I have had my eyes tested and they are fine. Been to the GP who says it’s all anxiety. I’m so scared I have spent the last few days in tears as I think no one believes me and I’m just going to be left like this until something awful happens to me.

• Hi, id try the following

  Check for high blood pressure i had a constant headache with that.

  Get your ears and back teeth looked at…inner ear infection or wisdom tooth impaction both cause bad headache eye socket and sinus pain .

  I dont take any anxiety meds but have had health anxiety for 20 yrs. My default sadly is when im totally convinced im dying of something, have 2 or 3 large apricot brandys, if the symptoms/ pain and feelings of unease all disappear after that, ive normally proved to myself im just getting myself into a state, real tumours/heart attacks dont just disappear cos youre half sloshed. X take care

   

• Hello. I know this is an old post and I have been reading everyone’s replies. I am the same, I have been having symptoms of what I think is something serious. I have been getting a twitch in my left eye, right eye throbbing pain that comes and goes, I wake up and I swear my eyes move back and fourth then it goes. I don’t know if it’s anxiety or they are actual symptoms of something. I am going to ring the doctors again, I feel I’m always ringing there. I have been to the breast clinic three times in the past 8 months as I’ve been having issue with my breast. I’m also having problems with my shoulder too. I am having CBT for health anxiety. It’s all started since having my baby I feel like I’ve wasted precious maternity leave on constant worry. It’s comforting to know I am not alone but hate knowing others are feeling this way too. 
  Hope you’ve managed to find some inner peace. 

  Katie x

• Hi I ,know this is old post as Katie said however since last November I tripped out really bad and start having bad panic attacks everyday for long peroid of time I started to feel like I wasn’t here on the earth and that I wasn’t who I am (depersonalisation ) however I went on hoikday in the new year and started to get face pain , headaches and noselbleeds this sent me to go see the doctor he said it was a sinus infection and gave me a course of antibiotics months have passed and I was still getting these pressure type of pain in my head so I go back to my gp and tell him he says they’re tension headaches the nose bleeds have stopped and my sinus are kind of clearing however even though deep down I know I’m fine I’ve been convincing myself I had a brain tumour is they something wrong with me 

First symptoms of a brain tumor

Domodedovo MRI Center safely and efficiently conducts brain studies.

Brain cancer is one of the most difficult diseases to treat. There are several types of brain tumors – pituitary adenoma, glioma, meningioma, neuroma (it is benign and is eliminated with successful treatment). How not to miss the first symptoms of brain cancer? It is believed that the patient is concerned about the following symptoms, which can be considered universal for any type of tumor. Let’s consider them in more detail.

Symptoms of a brain tumor:

It should be noted that the symptoms are more pronounced if the tumor presses on certain parts of the organ. The speed of development of symptoms and their intensity also depend on it. The earliest signs include:

1. Headache

Headache is one of the first symptoms that may indicate both the presence of a malignant tumor and a benign one. Pain may be bursting, dull in nature. The pain often appears (or intensifies) in the second half of the night or in the morning. The patient may even wake up from severe pain in the head.

Pain becomes more intense with stress or physical intensification (or appears if it was not there before).

Only 17% of patients suffer from classic headaches. In other cases, they are diffuse in nature and resemble tension-type pain (pain due to tension), covering the top of the head. They are bilateral or unilateral (50%) in nature.

2. Vomiting

It has quite characteristic manifestations. Appears in the morning and has a reflex, sudden, fantasizing character. The appearance of vomiting is in no way connected with food intake – often patients vomit on an empty stomach without any preliminary symptoms – nausea, vomiting, belching, as a result of a headache. In children, this symptom may be isolated. Vomiting can occur when you change the position of the body or even when you turn your head in the morning.

3. Dizziness

Dizziness associated with increased intracranial and cerebrospinal fluid pressure, accompanied by increasing headache, vomiting, tinnitus and hearing loss.

Other symptoms of a brain tumor are mental disorders, epileptic seizures, blurred vision, impaired balance, as well as decreased tactile sensitivity and speech disorders.

If you have these symptoms, be sure to see a doctor. Be healthy!

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symptoms, signs, causes and treatment of brain cancer

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Mikhail Yurievich

Experience 29 years

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Brain cancer is a process of pathological transformation of brain cells or surrounding meninges, glandular and bone tissues. As a result of transformation, abnormal cells begin the process of uncontrolled division, due to which a tumor is formed that compresses healthy tissues and increases intracranial pressure. In conditions of space limited by the cranium, even a benign neoplasm, if left untreated, can lead to disability or even death.

Species

Brain tumors are divided into:

• primary – developing directly from intracranial tissues;
• secondary – developing from metastases spread by a tumor located in another organ.

According to the place of formation, tumors are distinguished:

• neuroepithelial, or gliomas – appearing directly in the brain tissues;
• meningeal, or meningiomas – developing in the tissues of the meninges;
• neuromas – originating in the cells of the nerve fibers of the skull;
• pituitary adenomas – rarely showing malignant features;
• metastases from other organs;
• dysembryogenetic neoplasms that develop during the embryonic period of a child’s development.

Symptoms

With the appearance of brain cancer, the symptoms in the early stages are local in nature and depend on the site of the tumor. The disease manifests itself:

• impaired sensitivity in certain parts of the body, poor orientation in space;
• memory disorders;
• decreased muscle activity up to complete paralysis;
• epileptic seizures;
• hearing loss and reduced speech recognition;
• partial or complete visual dysfunction;
• partial or complete loss of the ability to write and speak;
• weakness, fatigue;
• pathological changes in the production of pituitary or hypothalamic hormones;
• changes in character, emotional imbalance;
• decrease in intellectual level;
• the appearance of hallucinations.

The first signs of brain cancer appear as minor changes in one or more of these areas, but worsening progresses over time. With a significant increase in pressure inside the skull, cerebral symptoms appear:

• persistent high-intensity headaches that cannot be relieved with analgesics;
• dizziness caused by compression of the cerebellum or reduced blood supply to brain structures;
• vomiting, not dependent on food intake.

Causes and risk factors

The exact causes of brain cancer have not yet been clarified, but there are certain risk factors that significantly increase the likelihood of developing neoplasms:

• inherited predisposition from parents or other close relatives;
• work in hazardous production;
• prolonged exposure to radiation;
• reduced function of the immune system;
• infection with Epstein-Barr virus or cytomegalovirus;
• traumatic brain injury in the past;
• male, elderly, white.

The presence of one or even more of these signs does not mean that a person will necessarily develop a tumor in the brain, but the risk of developing the disease for these people is increased compared to the rest.

Stages

Since the signs of brain cancer do not appear immediately after the onset of the disease and remain subtle for a long time, it is quite difficult to accurately determine the stage of tumor development. Oncologists distinguish four stages of the disease.

1. Pathological changes affect a small number of cells localized in a limited area of ​​the brain. The patient experiences periodic headaches, weakness, constant drowsiness appear, dizziness often occurs.
2. The tumor grows, penetrates into the nearest tissues, begins to compress individual centers of the brain. This can be manifested by convulsive seizures, periodic vomiting, and digestive disorders.
3. Due to the rapid growth of the tumor, surgical removal of malignant tissue becomes almost impossible. Symptoms intensify, cognitive impairment appears, coordination of movements worsens. A characteristic symptom of the third stage is horizontal nystagmus, or the constant movement of the pupils horizontally.
4. The tumor grows so much that the patient experiences constant headaches, gradually loses the function of maintaining vital processes. In the absence of treatment or its low effectiveness, the patient falls into a coma, followed by death.

Diagnostics

It is difficult to determine the presence of a brain tumor by symptoms, especially in the early stages. Taking a biopsy for histological examination is very difficult, since this requires a full-fledged neurosurgical operation. During the examination, the neurologist prescribes the following types of diagnostics:

• electroencephalography to detect brain disorders;

• Echo-EEG to check intracranial pressure;

• ophthalmoscopy to rule out deterioration in visual function due to ocular pathologies;

• CT of the brain is the main study that allows you to detect a tumor, determine its size, the presence of hemorrhages, calcifications and other pathological changes in tissues;

• MRI of the brain is a complementary study to CT, which is necessary to clarify changes in the soft tissues of the brain;

• MRI of the vessels of the head – to study changes in the structure of the blood supply to the brain and other tissues;

• PET of the brain – to determine the level of malignancy of the neoplasm.

If a decision is made to perform an operation, a histological examination of the removed tumor tissues is mandatory to determine the histological type of the tumor and the level of cell differentiation.

Treatment

Regarding the treatment of brain oncology, you should contact a neurologist or neurosurgeon. Based on the stage of development and localization of the tumor, the doctor chooses the most appropriate treatment methods in each case.

• Neurosurgery. Removal of a malignant neoplasm is the most effective way to guarantee complete elimination of the disease. Intervention is possible at the first and partially at the second stage of the disease, but much here depends on the location of the tumor and its proximity to the vital centers of the brain. The effectiveness of surgeons has increased due to the use of laser and ultrasound technology.

• Radiation therapy. Removal of malignant cells with ionized radiation is used as an aid after surgery, as well as the main one in cases where intervention is impossible. The intensity and duration of irradiation in each case is selected individually, in accordance with the size and location of the pathological area, the type of altered cells and other characteristics.

• Chemotherapy. It is difficult to select drugs for the treatment of brain tumors due to the presence of the blood-brain barrier. As a rule, they are prescribed in combination with radiation therapy, and the course consists of several drugs that complement each other. Courses lasting 1-3 weeks are carried out under constant monitoring of blood changes.

• Cryosurgery. The destruction of tumor tissue by freezing is beneficial in cases where the traditional operation is difficult due to the proximity of vital centers or the deep location of the pathological site. Cryosurgical intervention can be used as the main method or as an addition to conventional surgery, laser and chemical treatments.

• symptomatic treatment. If the tumor is detected too late, and any of the above methods fail, the patient is prescribed therapy aimed at reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life. These are glucocorticosteroids, sedatives and antiemetics, NSAIDs for pain relief, as well as narcotic analgesics.

Forecasts

The success of treatment depends on the timely detection of the disease. If therapy is started at the first or second stage of brain cancer, the five-year survival rate is, according to various estimates, 80-85% of patients. With late detection of the disease, a favorable result is possible for approximately 31% of patients. However, it should be remembered that oncological diseases are one of the least studied areas of medicine, so one should never give up the chances of life, even in the most advanced cases of the disease.

Prevention

The main measures for the prevention of brain cancer are the elimination of adverse environmental factors and the early detection of tumors, as well as the treatment of oncological diseases of other organs in order to avoid metastasis to cerebral tissues. It is necessary to exclude excessive insolation, the influence of oncogenic compounds, and the intake of bioactive drugs.

Rehabilitation

Recovery after a surgical operation includes a number of activities aimed at restoring vital skills and abilities:

• exercise therapy to restore coordination and motor activity;
• sessions with a speech therapist to stabilize speech function;
• physiotherapy general strengthening treatment;
• taking drugs to improve memory.

Questions and answers

How do you know if you have brain cancer?

In the initial stages of the disease, the symptoms of brain cancer can be easily confused with signs of ordinary fatigue, a mild cold, neurological or cardiac disease. To be sure of the absence of the disease, it is necessary to undergo an examination on a computed tomography scanner, which allows you to detect a tumor in the initial phase of development.

Is there a cure for brain cancer?

With the timely detection of a tumor, timely and high-quality surgical treatment, one hundred percent restoration of health is possible.