Brain Tumour is a severe medical condition, which disrupts the proper functioning of the brain. It refers to the growth of abnormal cells within the brain. The risk of brain tumours increases with age, say leading neurologists and oncologists at AMRI Hospitals, one of the top multispecialty hospitals in Kolkata. It also ranks among the best neurology hospitals in Kolkata.
The cancer cells growing in the brain have a major impact on various vital functions, like memory, muscle control, sensation, etc.
Though, there is no certain cause of brain cancer, a few factors increase its risk, such as:
- Being exposed to ionizing radiation, for example, radiation exposure caused by atomic bombs
- Genetic disorders like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Von Hippel-Lindau disease and Neurofibromatosis (NF1 and NF2). Though, these disorders are quiet rare, they increase the risk of brain cancer to a great extent
Types of Brain Cancer
Based on the causes and symptoms, brain tumours are divided into two parts: benign and malignant.
- Benign brain tumours
Such tumours in the brain do not contain cancer cells and usually grow slowly. Benign tumours have a clear border or edge, and do not spread into other brain cells or any body part. However, they can pose a threat to the sensitive areas of the brain and can lead to serious health issues in some few cases. Neurologists at AMRI Hospital Saltlake warn that such tumours can also become malignant and prove to be life threatening.
- Malignant brain tumours
Malignant brain tumours are considered perilous as they contain cancer cells. Having no clear borders, they tend to spread to other parts of the brain.
Symptoms of Brain Cancer
There are a number of early warning signs that indicate the risk of brain cancer. Some of the most common ones include:
- Frequent headaches (often in the morning) without any known cause
- Confusion or inability to understand
- Nausea and vomiting
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Inability to talk, hear, or see properly
- Weakness and dizziness
- Issues related to memory
- Problems related to balancing, walking or coordination
- Frequent mood swings
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Problems related to vision (loss of vision in one or both eyes)
It is important to note that the above mentioned symptoms don’t necessarily indicate brain cancer. They can also be caused due to various other reasons. But you should consult a doctor in case you experience any of these symptoms, say experts at AMRI Hospitals.
Diagnosis and treatment of Brain Cancer
Brain tumours are detected using a number of tests like MRI, CT scan, and biopsy, along with a neurological exam. The treatment is based on the type, location, and size of the tumour, as well as the health, and age of the patient. Most commonly used treatment options include watchful waiting, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.
The severity of brain cancer makes it important to keep a check on its symptoms, and ensure timely treatment in order to control the damage.
Source Link: Munplanet
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