The brain is a complex organ, often called the CPU for the human body. It stores information and processes stimuli, bodily functions and reactions all while maintaining the basic body functions directly or indirectly. Any abnormality in the brain can lead to a serious impact on all body functions.
Synopsis
What is a Brain Tumor?
A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain. Tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Brain tumours can occur in any part of the brain and can affect people of any age.
What are the common symptoms of Brain Tumors?
The brain tumor symptoms can vary depending on the size, location, and type of tumour. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Frequent Headaches: These are often persistent and can be worse in the morning.
- Seizures or convulsions: These are sudden, uncontrolled electrical discharges in the brain.
- Speech Difficulty: Difficulty thinking, speaking, finding words or gathering thoughts in general.
- Personality or behaviour changes: These can include depression, anxiety, or irritability.
- Hemiparesis: Weakness, numbness, or paralysis in one part or one side of the body.
- Ataxia: Loss of balance, dizziness, or unsteadiness.
- Vision changes: These can include blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
- Hearing changes: These can include hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or vertigo (a feeling of dizziness or spinning).
- Nausea and vomiting: These are often caused by increased pressure in the brain.
- Changes in sleep patterns: These can include insomnia, excessive sleepiness, or nightmares.
Are there any early signs of Brain Tumors to watch out for?
Listed below are some of the possible signs of a brain tumour or brain cancer warning signs that may be observed by others or through medical tests. They may not always be signs of a tumour, but should not be ignored.
- Changes in Gait or Balance: This may be noticeable as clumsiness or difficulty walking.
- Changes in Vision: This may be noticeable as difficulty reading, driving, or seeing objects clearly.
- Changes in Personality or Behavior: This may be noticeable as irritability, depression, or mood swings.
- Changes in Consciousness: This may be noticeable as confusion, drowsiness, or coma in severe cases.
Any unusual symptom in the body should be reported to the doctor. Getting an early diagnosis improves the chances of successful treatment. Manipal Hospitals Baner has some of the best Neurosurgeons in Pune and neurologists to help detect and treat brain-related disorders.
Causes
The exact cause of developing brain tumours is unknown. However, some factors that may increase the risk of developing a brain tumour include:
- Exposure to Radiation: This includes exposure to X-rays, Gamma Rays, and Radioactive materials.
- Genetic Conditions: These include neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
- Family History: People who have a family history of brain tumours are at an increased risk of developing the disease themselves.
Treatment Options
The treatment of a brain tumour depends on the size, location, and type of tumour. Some of the most common treatment options include:
- Surgery- This is the most common treatment for brain tumours.
- Radiation Therapy- This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy- This uses chemical treatment in brain cancer therapy, to target and kill cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy- This uses drugs that target specific molecules or pathways that are involved in cancer growth.
- Immunotherapy- This helps the body's immune system fight cancer cells.
- Observation- This is an option for some small, slow-growing tumours that are not causing symptoms.
Manipal Hospitals Baner is one of the best hospitals for brain tumour treatment in Pune city. Consult our experienced doctors to find the best care for your loved ones.