Early Symptoms of Brain Cancer
- Headaches as a symptom of a brain tumor are generally worst in the morning, sometimes even waking the sufferer from sleep. Movement, coughing or even bending may make the headaches worse, and vomiting may make the headache subside temporarily.
- Seizures, as a new symptom and not part of existing epilepsy, can be a sign of a brain tumor.
- Mass effects are caused by intracranial pressure. This occurs when the brain swells because of accumulating extra fluid. Doctors will often check for a swollen optic nerve to determine if there is intracranial pressure.
- These can include changes in personality or memory. Suddenly forgetting things, becoming more aggressive or timid, or becoming anxious or depressed can be early symptoms of brain cancer.
- Nausea and vomiting, as a result of the pressure from the tumor, also occurs in many cases.
- Focal symptoms help the doctor to focus on where the tumor has grown. Problems with hearing (loss, buzzing, ringing), coordination issues, paralysis, muscle weakness and vision disturbances are important to note.
- While these are standard early symptoms of brain cancer, they can also be signs of other problems. It is possible to have migraines, anxiety, phobias, or even anorexia that mimic the same symptoms. If you have any concern, however, see a doctor and make sure.