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What You Need To Know About™

Brain Tumors

    Posted: 04/29/2009



About This Booklet






The Brain






Tumor Grades and Types






Risk Factors






Symptoms






Diagnosis






Treatment






Second Opinion






Nutrition






Supportive Care






Rehabilitation






Follow-up Care






Sources of Support






Taking Part in Cancer Research






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Symptoms

The symptoms of a brain tumor depend on tumor size, type, and location. Symptoms may be caused when a tumor presses on a nerve or harms a part of the brain. Also, they may be caused when a tumor blocks the fluid that flows through and around the brain, or when the brain swells because of the buildup of fluid.

These are the most common symptoms of brain tumors:

  • Headaches (usually worse in the morning)

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Changes in speech, vision, or hearing

  • Problems balancing or walking

  • Changes in mood, personality, or ability to concentrate

  • Problems with memory

  • Muscle jerking or twitching (seizures or convulsions)

  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs

Most often, these symptoms are not due to a brain tumor. Another health problem could cause them. If you have any of these symptoms, you should tell your doctor so that problems can be diagnosed and treated.

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