Brain tumors are considered rare, but there are some people who are at a higher risk, and it’s a condition that’s much better when it’s spotted, diagnosed and treated early. If you are showing any of the symptoms on this list in combination with one another, then you have serious cause for concern – and even if it isn’t a brain tumor, you should seek medical attention.
While brain tumors are rare, you can consider yourself at a higher risk of developing a brain tumor if you have a family history of the condition, if you are a smoker or if you have spent a life in a career that comes with a higher risk of cancer. Have a look at the symptoms on this list to spot 18 cautionary brain tumor symptoms in yourself or someone else. If you suspect that you or someone you know might be at an increased risk of a tumor and show any of these symptoms, make an appointment with a medical professional so that the root cause behind your symptoms can be found.
1. Headaches
Headaches are often the most common symptom that makes someone with a brain tumor think that they should go to the doctor, and it’s often the symptom that’s most persistent with a brain tumor – usually because of the pressure that the tumor and its growth is placing on the brain. Sometimes the headaches become more severe with times, sometimes the condition comes and goes – other times the headache won’t go away.
Don’t assume that your headache is nothing. It can be caused by a range of conditions, including migraines and dehydration, but headaches are your body’s way of telling you that your health needs a closer look – and you should really listen when this is what your body is telling you.
If you experience headaches and can’t find relief, stop adding painkillers to the mix: This can be dangerous if you are trying to treat a brain tumor and can do more harm.