What are the first signs of brain tumour?

A tumour can affect different functions depending on its position and size. Headache may be accompanied by nausea or vomiting, while pressure on movement areas can cause weakness, clumsiness, or unsteady walking. Changes in speech, vision, memory, behaviour, or concentration may be more noticeable to family members than to the person affected.

Most headaches and many neurological symptoms are not caused by a brain tumour. A first-time seizure or a progressive change still requires clinical assessment. An MRI scan can provide detailed images to help the team identify what is causing the symptoms.

Make a prompt appointment for a new symptom that persists, recurs, or gradually worsens. Write down its timing, triggers, and effect on everyday activities. Tell the clinician about previous cancer, head injury, medicines, seizures, or changes noticed by someone close to you.

Get emergency help for a first-time seizure, sudden weakness, sudden loss of vision or speech, collapse, severe confusion, repeated vomiting, or a sudden severe headache. Keep the person safe during a seizure, move nearby hazards, and do not put anything in their mouth.

Ask what the examination suggests, whether an MRI scan is needed, and which symptoms should be reported immediately. If a tumour is found, ask how its type and location affect options such as brain tumour surgery, radiotherapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, or chemotherapy.