What is a brain tumor?

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain. The anatomy of the brain is very complex, with different parts responsible for different nervous system functions. Brain tumors can develop in any part of the brain or skull, including its protective lining, the underside of the brain (skull base), the brainstem, the sinuses, the nasal cavity, and many other areas. There are more than 120 different types of tumors that can develop in the brain depending on what tissue they arise from.

How common and dangerous are brain tumors?

In the United States, brain and nervous system tumors affect about 30 adults out of 100,000. Brain tumors are dangerous because they can put pressure on healthy parts of the brain by spreading into those areas. Some brain tumors can also be cancerous or become cancerous over time. They can cause problems if they block the flow of fluid around the brain, which can lead to an increase in pressure inside the skull. Some types of tumors can spread through the spinal fluid to distant areas of the brain or the spine.

Brain tumor symptoms:

Different parts of the brain have different functions, so brain tumor symptoms will vary depending on the tumor’s location in the brain. For example, a brain tumor located in the cerebellum at the back of the head may cause trouble with movement, walking, balance, and coordination. The tumor’s size and how fast it’s growing also affect which symptoms a person will experience.

The most common brain tumor symptoms are:

• Headaches
• Seizures
• Difficulty speaking, hearing, and trouble with vision
• Persistently feeling sick (nausea), being sick (vomiting), and drowsiness
• mental or behavioral changes, such as memory problems or changes in personality
• Confusion or disorientation