Signs and Symptoms

Every person diagnosed with a brain tumour will have different symptoms and their own journey to a diagnosis. While some people do not develop symptoms that would indicate a tumour, others may have symptoms that worsen over time eventually leading to a diagnosis. Others still may feel perfectly fine but experience a sudden onset of symptoms, such as a seizure, which leads to a quick and unexpected tumour diagnosis.

The following is a list of common symptoms which, alone or combined, can be caused by a brain tumour (malignant or non-malignant):

• Behavioural changes
• Cognitive changes
• Dizziness or unsteadiness
• Double or blurred vision
• Frequent headaches
• Hearing impairment
• Morning nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Weakness or paralysis

If you or someone you care about experiences any of these symptoms, please consult your doctor.

 “At first, it just seemed like she had a really bad flu, but when the symptoms kept coming back and no one else in the house was getting sick, we knew there must be something else wrong. We also noticed that she was throwing up in the morning and was hungry after. She was also complaining of a pain in her neck. Looking back it seems obvious but at the time you convince yourself that it could be something simple.”
Karen Metcalfe, whose daughter was diagnosed at the age of four with a Pilocytic Astrocytoma
Windsor, ON

 
Please note that this information is provided for education purposes only and questions about an individual’s health should be directed to your doctor.
 

You can also forward your questions about what Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada can offer you to:

Janic Gorayeb
Health Information Specialist
jgorayeb@braintumour.ca
1-800-265-5106 or 519-642-7755 ext 233