Symptoms
A brain tumor can cause symptoms by invading or pressing on healthy tissue, increasing pressure inside your skull, obstructing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, or causing brain swelling (edema). In general, most brain tumors can cause symptoms such as headaches, seizures, emotional changes, problems with muscle movement and coordination, problems with thinking and memory, and changes in your senses. However, the symptoms you experience often depend on the part of the brain affected.
Click Image to Enlarge.
Here are the main parts of the brain:
- Cerebrum - The cerebrum is the large, superior part of the brain. It has two halves called hemispheres. The left hemisphere controls the right side of the body and the right hemisphere controls the left side. The cerebrum controls emotions, thoughts, speech learning, senses (seeing, hearing, smelling, touching), and voluntary muscle movement.
- Cerebellum - The cerebellum is located underneath the cerebrum at the back of the brain. The cerebellum controls balance and coordination.
- Brain Stem - The brain stem is located at the base of the brain, and connects the brain and spinal cord. It contains nerve fibers that transmit signals between the cerebrum, cerebellum, and the rest of the body. It controls basic body functions such as breathing, heartbeat, and blood pressure.
- Basal Ganglia - The basal ganglia are located deep within the brain and also help control muscle movement.
- Spinal Cord - The spinal cord also has nerve fibers that carry signals coordinating muscle movement, feeling, sensation, bladder function, and bowel function.
- Cranial Nerves - The cranial nerves come out of the brain stem rather than the spinal cord.
Here are some symptoms of tumors in different parts of the brain:
Seizures or Tremors
Weakness
Numbness
Problems with Speech and Comprehension
Personality and Mood Changes
Vision or Hearing Difficulties
Difficulty Thinking or Concentrating
Difficulty Swallowing
Breathing Difficulty
Difficulty Walking and Controlling Arm and Leg Movements
Problems Controlling Facial Movements
Eye Movement Problems
Muscle Pain, Stiffness, or Spasms
