Brain Tumour
Make an AppointmentWhat is a Brain Tumour?
A brain tumour refers to an abnormal growth of cells within or near the brain. Brain tumours can develop in the brain tissue itself or nearby structures like the pituitary gland, pineal gland, or the meninges (the protective membranes surrounding the brain).
There are two primary classifications of brain tumours:
- Primary Brain Tumours: Tumours that originate within the brain.
- Secondary Brain Tumours (Metastatic Tumours): Tumours that spread to the brain from other parts of the body.
Brain tumours can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign tumours grow slowly and might press against brain tissue, whereas malignant tumours grow rapidly, often invading and destroying surrounding brain structures.
Types of Brain Tumours
Brain tumours are classified based on the type of cells they originate from. Here are some common types:
- Meningioma – usually benign, grows from the covering of the brain.
- Glioma (e.g., Astrocytoma, Glioblastoma) – arises from brain tissue, can be cancerous.
- Pituitary Tumour – develops from the pituitary gland; may affect hormones.
- Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma) – grows on the nerve for balance and hearing.
- Metastatic Tumour – cancer that has spread from another part of the body to the brain.
Causes of Brain Tumours
The causes of brain tumours are not always clear, but several factors may increase the likelihood of developing them:
- Genetic Mutations: Changes in DNA can cause cells to grow uncontrollably, leading to tumour formation.
- Radiation Exposure: Prolonged exposure to ionising radiation, such as from cancer treatments or environmental sources, may increase the risk of brain tumours.
- Family History: A small percentage of brain tumours are linked to inherited genetic conditions.
- Immune System Disorders: Conditions that weaken the immune system may increase susceptibility to certain types of brain tumours, such as primary central nervous system lymphoma.
- Age and Gender: Brain tumours can occur at any age, but certain types are more common in specific age groups or genders. For example, glioblastomas are more prevalent in older adults.
Symptoms of Brain Tumours
The symptoms of brain tumours can vary depending on the tumour’s size, location, and growth rate. Tumours can cause symptoms by pressing on brain tissue or disrupting normal brain function. Symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the tumour’s impact on the brain.
General Symptoms of Brain Tumours
Common symptoms include:
- Headaches: Persistent and often worse in the morning or when straining.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Usually unrelated to food intake.
- Vision Problems: Blurred vision, double vision, or peripheral vision loss.
- Seizures: Particularly in individuals with no previous seizure history.
- Fatigue: Unexplained or excessive tiredness.
- Cognitive Changes: Trouble concentrating, memory lapses, or confusion.
- Personality or Behavioural Changes: Such as irritability, apathy, or unusual behaviour.
- Hearing Problems: Ringing in the ears or hearing loss.
- Dizziness or Vertigo: A sensation of spinning or loss of balance.
Symptoms Based on Tumour Location
The symptoms of a brain tumour depend on the part of the brain that is affected. For example:
- Frontal Lobes (Front): May cause personality changes, difficulty with movement, and balance issues.
- Parietal Lobes (Upper Middle): Can lead to sensory perception issues and difficulty interpreting visual information.
- Occipital Lobes (Back): May cause vision loss or difficulty recognising objects.
- Temporal Lobes (Lower Sides): Can cause memory issues, confusion, and hallucinations.
Brain Tumour Headaches
Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of brain tumours. They are often worse in the morning and may intensify with physical activities like coughing, bending, or straining. Tumour-related headaches can resemble tension headaches or migraines.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience persistent symptoms such as severe headaches, unexplained seizures, vision changes, or cognitive difficulties, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Early detection can help in managing the condition effectively.
At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), our team of neurologists, neurosurgeons, and other specialists is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options to provide comprehensive care for brain tumours.