Signs of Brain Cancer

When cancer begins to develop in the brain, it can cause a myriad of symptoms that affect personality as well as overall health. It is important to seek medical attention as quickly as possible if you suspect you have a brain tumor.

Physical Symptoms

• Symptoms can be as simple as lethargy or fever to more significant concerns, such as weakness on one side of the body. Physical symptoms can indicate a tumor in a variety of locations in the brain, including the parietal lobe, cerebellum, or brain stem. Other physical symptoms may include headache, seizure, nausea, numbness or weakness in the arms or legs, and trouble hearing or seeing (most commonly associated with occipital lobe tumors).

Functional Changes

• Swelling or the presence of a tumor may press on a certain area of the brain, most typically the frontal lobe. This can affect a person's coordination, such as stumbling, maintaining balance, difficulty walking and increased bouts of clumsiness.

Personality Changes

• A tumor can also affect a person's mental abilities and personality. These types of symptoms are most commonly associated with the temporal lobe. Personality changes may include increased irritability or speaking frequently out of turn, memory loss, trouble thinking clearly and hallucinations.