Brain Tumors: What You Need to Know About This Serious Condition
Brain Tumors: What You Need to Know About This Serious Condition
The Big Picture
Brain tumors are abnormal growths in the brain that can be life-threatening. They come in many types and can cause various symptoms depending on their location and size.
Contents
- Types of Brain Tumors
- Common Symptoms to Watch For
- How Brain Tumors Are Diagnosed
Types of Brain Tumors
Brain tumors fall into two main categories: primary and secondary. Primary tumors start in the brain, with gliomas and meningiomas being the most common in adults. Secondary tumors, or metastases, spread to the brain from cancers elsewhere in the body, like lung or breast cancer. Each type behaves differently and requires specific treatment approaches.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Brain tumor symptoms can vary widely but often include headaches, seizures, and changes in mental function. Some people experience weakness on one side of the body, vision problems, or difficulty speaking. It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so proper medical evaluation is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
How Brain Tumors Are Diagnosed
If a brain tumor is suspected, doctors typically start with a neurological exam and order an MRI scan. This detailed imaging test can reveal the presence, location, and size of a tumor. In many cases, a biopsy or surgical removal of the tumor is necessary to determine its exact type and grade, which guides treatment decisions.
FAQs
Are all brain tumors cancerous?
No, many brain tumors are benign, but can still cause serious problems.
Can brain tumors be prevented?
Most brain tumors can't be prevented, as their causes are often unknown.
Are brain tumors always fatal?
No, many people survive brain tumors with proper treatment.
Key Takeaways
While brain tumors are serious, early detection and advances in treatment offer hope for many patients.
Additional References
- Ostrom QT, et al. CBTRUS Statistical Report: Primary Brain and Other Central Nervous System Tumors Diagnosed in the United States in 2015-2019. Neuro Oncol 2022; 24:v1.
- Forsyth PA, Posner JB. Headaches in patients with brain tumors: a study of 111 patients. Neurology 1993; 43:1678.
- WHO Classification of Tumours of the Central Nervous System, 4th ed, Louis DN, et al. International Agency for Research on Cancer, 2016.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.