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Brain Tumors: Understanding the Symptoms and Treatment

Dec 13 , 2023 | 2 min read

A brain tumour is a complex health condition characterised by the growth of abnormal cells in the brain or spinal cord. These tumours can develop anywhere in the brain and can be benign or malignant. Although it is a relatively rare type of cancer, the impact it can have on a patient's life and their family is significant.

What Causes Brain Tumours?

The cause of brain tumours is not entirely clear, but research shows some risk factors that could contribute to the development of this condition. These risk factors are:

Age
Exposure to radiation
Family history of brain tumours
Certain medical conditions, such as neurofibromatosis

Symptoms of Brain Tumours

Symptoms of brain tumours vary depending on the size, location, and type of tumour. In most cases, the symptoms tend to develop gradually and worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

Headaches
Seizures
Blurred vision
Speech problems
Loss of mobility
Changes in personality.

It's important to note that some people may not experience symptoms until the tumour has grown significantly and started affecting the surrounding tissues.

Diagnosis of Brain Tumours

If a doctor suspects an individual has a brain tumour, they will refer the patient to a neurosurgeon to confirm the diagnosis. The diagnosis of a brain tumour starts with a physical exam and a detailed medical history. In addition, the doctor may recommend imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. These imaging tests can help doctors see the location and size of the tumour.

Treatment for Brain Tumors

The treatment for a brain tumour depends on the type, size, and location of the tumour. In some cases, doctors may recommend surgery (microscopic/ endoscopic/navigation-guided tumour excision) to remove the tumour. In other cases, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are used to shrink the tumour and slow down its growth. In more severe cases, a combination of these treatments may be used.

Risks Associated with Brain Tumours

There are some risks associated with brain tumours that patients and their families should be aware of. These include complications from surgery like infection, bleeding, and brain swelling. In some cases, the entire tumour may not be able to be removed, and further treatment may be required. In addition, radiation therapy and chemotherapy can have side effects like fatigue, nausea, and hair loss.

In conclusion, brain tumours are a complex health condition that requires careful diagnosis and urgent treatment. It's important for individuals to be aware of the symptoms of a brain tumour and seek medical attention if they experience any of them. With an early diagnosis and proper treatment, patients can recover from a brain tumour and live a healthy life. It's also important for individuals to engage in healthy lifestyle habits like regular exercise, avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals, and eating a healthy diet to reduce their risk of developing a brain tumour. World Brain Tumor Day is celebrated on 8th June every year to spread awareness among the general population.