Brain tumors can only be revealed using imaging tests like an MRI or CT Scan, so doctors are usually tipped off to the presence of a tumor via symptom prevalence. That being said, not all brain tumor symptoms are alike, so doctors need to be versed in a wide range of warning signs. Today, we take a look at six symptoms of a brain tumor that are often overlooked by patients and doctors because they are similar to symptoms for other conditions.
Oft-Overlooked Brain Tumor Symptoms
1. Headache – A headache is a very common symptom of a brain tumor, but it could also be caused by a lot more common issues, like dehydration, allergies or dietary issues. If headaches are regular or don’t respond to normal treatment, images may be taken to rule out a tumor.
2. Memory Loss – A tumor can impact your memory, so if you find yourself forgetting things, you may want to visit a neurosurgeon. This is especially true if you’re young, as the memory loss would not likely be due to dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease.
3. Confusion – Similarly, if you find yourself confused, and you haven’t suffered a concussion or recent head trauma, it may be a sign of a brain tumor.
4. Personality Changes – A brain tumor can change the way our brain processes thoughts and it can impact some of the hormones in our bodies, so if you haven’t felt like yourself in a while, consider visiting a head specialist.
5. Depression – On a similar note, a brain tumor can cause a person to become withdrawn or depressed because your brain isn’t functioning as it normally would. Depression is another often overlooked sign of a potential brain tumor.
6. Balance Problems – Balance problems are oftentimes diagnosed as vertigo or an inner ear infection when described to a doctor, but if normal treatment options don’t relieve symptoms, a good physician will take an imaging scan to check for a brain tumor.