A brain tumour is a condition that is characterized by a mass, or collection, of abnormal cells located in the brain. As the skull is a rigid and enclosed area, any growth occurring in this restricted space could result in a series of problems.

A brain tumor can either be non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). When a tumour grows in size, it could create pressure, resulting in life-threatening consequences, therefore, it is important to get it treated before it could cause further brain damage. To make the most of this unfortunate situation, one needs to choose the best brain tumor treatment in India and detect the brain tumor warning signs.

types and symptoms of brain tumor

Types of Brain Tumor

Brain tumors are either primary or secondary.

Primary Brain Tumors

In case of a primary brain tumor, the growth will originate in the brain. They usually develop from:

  • Glands
  • Nerve cells
  • Membranes surrounding the brain, known as meninges
  • Brain cells

Primary tumours can be cancerous or benign but are frequently benign in nature. The common forms of primary brain tumors are meningioma and gliomas.

Gliomas originate from glial cells in the brain. The main functions of these cells include:

  • Breaking down of dead neurons
  • Cleaning cellular waste
  • Providing nutrition to the central nervous system
  • Supporting the structure of the central nervous system

There are three major tumour growths originating from the glial cells.

  • Glioblastomas, originating in the supportive brain tissue and considered to be the most aggressive type.
  • Oligodendroglial tumours, developing mostly in the frontal temporal lobes.
  • Astrocytic tumours or astrocytomas, originating in the cerebrum.

Some of the other types of primary brain tumors are:

  • Ependymomas
  • Pituitary tumours
  • Meningiomas
  • Schwannomas
  • Pineal gland tumours

Secondary Brain Tumor

A secondary brain tumor also referred to as a metastatic brain tumor, can be seen when cancer cells multiply and spread to the brain from a different organ. The majority of the brain cancer cases result from secondary brain tumors. Some of the cancers that have the potential of affecting the brain include:

  • Skin cancer
  • Kidney cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Lung cancer

Secondary brain tumours are always malignant in nature because of their origin.

Symptoms and warning signs of Brain Tumor

The symptoms will vary depending on the size and location of a tumor. A headache is one of the most commonly observed symptoms of a brain tumor. Headaches could increase in its intensity after waking up in the morning. They can also occur while sleeping. Exercising, sneezing, or coughing could make the pain worse. Some of the other commonly experienced brain tumor symptoms in adults include:

  • Changes in mental functioning
  • Seizures
  • Confusion
  • Vomiting
  • Double vision or blurred vision
  • Hand tremors
  • Uncontrollable movements
  • Loss of balance
  • Difficulty walking
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control

These brain tumor symptoms could hinder the normal functioning of any person’s life. Therefore, it is important to visit a medical health professional if someone experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above to find the root cause of the problem and get it treated timely.