The brain is one of the most complex and important organs of the body. Thinking, learning, memory, emotional regulation, movement control and many other vital functions are managed by the brain. Brain health affects overall quality of life and well-being. Sometimes abnormal cell growth can occur in the brain, causing a serious health problem known as brain tumors.
What is a brain tumor?
Brain tumors are masses that form as a result of the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the brain. They can be of two basic types: benign and malignant. Malignant brain tumors tend to be cancerous and can spread to surrounding tissues.
What causes brain tumor?
The exact cause of brain tumors is often unknown, but there are some risk factors. These may include radiation exposure, genetic factors, brain trauma, smoking, and exposure to certain chemicals. To reduce the risk, it is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle, quit smoking, reduce exposure to sunlight and prevent head injuries.
What are the symptoms of brain tumor?
Brain tumor symptoms may vary depending on the size of the tumor, its location, and the brain functions it affects. Symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, loss of balance, vision or hearing problems, behavioral changes, and neurological problems (e.g., drowsiness, weakness) are common. Symptoms of tumor in the brain are as follows:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Facial paralysis
- Numbness or tingling
- muscle weakness
- incoordination
- loss of balance
- Defect of vision
- speech disorder
- Memory loss or difficulty concentrating
- seizures
- Depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, social isolation, or impaired cognitive function
- Constant fatigue and weakness
- dizziness
- Hearing loss
- difficulty swallowing
- Disorder in smell
- excessive sleepiness
How is brain tumor treated?
Brain tumors are usually diagnosed with imaging tests (MRI, CT scans) and biopsy. Brain tumor treatment options vary depending on the type of tumor, its size, location, and the patient’s overall health. Methods such as surgical intervention, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and targeted drug therapy can be used. Brain tumor treatment methods include:
- If possible, neurosurgeons remove the tumor (through a procedure called craniotomy). The entire tumor or as much of it as possible can be removed.
- High-energy X-rays are used to kill or shrink tumor cells. Radiotherapy may be applied before or after surgery.
- Medicines are used to kill tumor cells. Chemotherapy is often used together with radiotherapy.
- Drugs that target specific molecular changes in tumor cells are used. These treatments vary depending on the tumor type.
- Medications and treatments are used to control side effects and improve quality of life.