Some brain tumour symptoms are the same as other medical conditions. NNI shares some of these these common symptoms and the diagnostic tools to evaluate if these are brain cancer.
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Adj Asst Prof David Low, Head and Consultant of the Neurosurgical Service at KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH) and Consultant at the
Department at Neurosurgery of the
National Neuroscience Institute (NNI), a member of the
SingHealth group shares on symptoms of brain tumour.
Abnormal growths of cells in the brain are popularly called brain tumours. However, not all brain tumours are cancerous. A benign tumour is not as serious as malignant ones but they can cause the same symptoms.
BRAIN TUMOUR SYMPTOMS
Depending on the type of brain tumour, symptoms may vary and present gradually.
Common brain tumour symptoms include the following:
- Headaches that recur and intensify, especially in the morning
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures or fits
- Unexplained drowsiness
- Double vision, blurring or trouble seeing properly
- Increasing difficulty with speech and hearing
- Growing weakness in the limbs
- Problems with hearing, balance and coordination
- Marked changes in memory, concentration or alertness
However, some of these symptoms may also be present in other medical conditions. Again, it is prudent to consult a doctor to determine your medical condition.
DID YOU KNOW THESE FACTS ABOUT BRAIN TUMOURS?
There are over 120 types of primary brain tumours. The most common types are meningioma and glioma.
A brain tumour can be diagnosed based on a CT scan and an MRI. However, to determine the type of brain tumour, a biopsy is required.
Singapore has its very own brain tumour support group. Started by brain cancer survivors, the Brain Tumour Society (Singapore) meets at least once a month so members can share experiences and advice on how to cope with the disease.
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