Brain Tumor

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain that can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign tumors grow slowly and rarely spread, while malignant tumors are aggressive and can invade nearby brain tissues. Brain tumors can originate in the brain (primary tumors) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic tumors). Depending on their size and location, brain tumors can interfere with vital brain functions, affecting cognition, motor skills, and sensory abilities.

Causes

The exact cause of brain tumors is still unknown. However, certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing them, including exposure to high levels of radiation, genetic predisposition, and a family history of brain tumors. Environmental factors like exposure to carcinogenic chemicals and conditions that suppress the immune system, such as HIV, can also contribute to the risk. In some cases, mutations in genes may lead to abnormal cell growth in the brain.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a brain tumor can vary widely depending on its location and size. Common signs include persistent headaches that worsen over time, particularly in the morning. Nausea, vomiting, and vision problems, such as double or blurred vision, are also frequent symptoms. Other symptoms can include difficulty balancing, seizures, personality changes, memory issues, and speech difficulties. In some cases, weakness or numbness in certain parts of the body may occur.

Treatment

Treatment options for brain tumors depend on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Surgery is often the first step to remove the tumor or as much of it as possible. Additional treatments may include radiation therapy to destroy remaining tumor cells and chemotherapy to target cancerous growths. In certain cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapy may be used to attack specific cancer cells. Rehabilitation therapies, such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, help patients regain lost functions.