Not Just another Headache: Subtle Signs of Brain Tumours

Last Updated:June 02, 2025, 11:14 IST

Recognizing some of the more subtle but systematic symptoms, can lead to an early diagnosis, an early intervention, and a much improved prognosis

Brain tumors are rare but can lead to significant lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, are even fatal. The problem is identifying it early, because many of the initial symptoms are often disregarded as general health problems. Recognizing some of the more subtle but systematic symptoms, can lead to an early diagnosis, an early intervention, and a much improved prognosis. Dr. Abhaya Kumar, Head, Neurosurgery and Consultant, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai shares all you need to know:

Headaches and Morning Vomiting / Nausea

One of the initial symptoms of a brain tumor is persistent headaches. Frequently these headaches tend to be worse in the morning and/or when lying down because of the increase jugular pressure that arises when in a horizontal position. Unlike tension headaches, these headaches are often not responsive to over-the-counter pain medications. When headaches are associated with nausea and/or vomiting, especially when there is no reasonable care for no digestive system disturbance, this can indicate there is considerable embarrassment in intracranial pressure that may suggest the possibility of a brain tumor.

New Seizures and Cognition

A second indication of a potential brain tumor is the development of seizures or other type of neurological disturbance in adults with no history of epilepsy. These seizures can include full body convulsions or just simple twitching and would signify abnormal electrical impulses caused by a brain tumor. In addition to the new onset of seizures, many patients exhibit decreases in cognition or personality such as stated confusion, forgetfulness, difficulty with attention etc. These changes may be gradual, but most are progressive, with the effecting students abilities to function daily.

Vision, Speech, and Balance Problems

Double or blurred vision, loss of peripheral vision, and spontaneous speech changes—such as slurred speech or difficulty with understanding language can indicate tumors compressing particular brain areas involved in sensory and motor function. Likewise, constant balance issues, walking unsteadily, or clumsiness should not be dismissed, particularly if these seem to develop suddenly or get worse over time.

Limb Weakness, Hearing Loss, and Tinnitus

Weakness or numbness developing suddenly or slowly, especially on one side of the body, could mean that a tumor is impacting motor pathways in the brain. Slow hearing loss or persistent ringing (tinnitus) in one ear is an indication of a tumor close to the auditory nerve. While these symptoms may be caused by other reasons, if they occur and persist or get worse, medical assessment is essential.

Dismissing the Myths

Proven myths taint judgment and retard diagnosis. For example, not all tumors in the brain are cancer; two-thirds are benign. Yet, even so-called benign tumors can cause severe harm if they compress vital brain structures. And brain tumors occur in people of all ages not only in older persons. In India, they are the second most prevalent cancer in children. Notably, though mobile phone radiation is typically blamed, existing research does not establish a direct connection to brain tumors.

The Real Risk

Malignant and benign brain tumors can both cause seizures, motor impairment, mental decline, and other neurological deficits. Malignant tumors aggressively expand and invade tissue, usually necessitating surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Benign tumors, although nonmalignant, can nevertheless disrupt vital brain functions based on their location.

Take Symptoms Seriously

Not all headaches or dizzy spells are caused by a brain tumor, but new, ongoing, or changing patterns should be noticed. The sooner a brain tumor is found and treated, the better. If you or your loved one are having any of the warning signs listed, see a health professional immediately. Brain tumors are often hidden, but their symptoms are telling listen early and it might save your life.

Swati Chaturvedi

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More

First Published: