They say there are two certainties in life, death, and taxes. While this is true there is little more frightening than facing a disease or other issue that has the potential to kill. This is something that has become more apparent to many people in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. But, there are many other conditions that can kill, brain tumors are one of those things. 

It is worth noting that the 5-year survival rate is 36%, having a brain tumor is not an immediate death sentence, but it is something that needs to be taken seriously and treatment obtained as early as possible.

If you suspect you have a brain tumor you’ll need to see your regular doctor, they can refer you to a brain surgeon who will confirm a diagnosis and talk you through the various treatment options. To help you know when to see a doctor you should be aware of the first symptoms of a brain tumor:

• Headaches

These will generally be worse first thing in the morning and are likely to get worse if you exercise. This is because the blood flow to the brain is being interrupted by the tumor. 

• Tiredness

Everyone feels tired or exhausted at times but if you start to feel exhausted all the time then you may have a brain-related issue.

• Nausea

This is a side-effect of many conditions. But, linked with the other symptoms on this list it can indicate the presence of a tumor. 

• Sleep Issues

Although you feel constantly tired you’ll find that your brain is struggling to switch off. This is because the electrical impulses in your brain are being scrambled, reducing its ability to send signals to your body. In turn, hormonal changes to prepare your body for sleep won’t occur, preventing you from sleeping properly.

• Difficulty With Daily Activities

A follow on from the brain confusion that prevents sleeping properly is that the signals may not get to all the parts of your body in the way they normally would. This can lead to difficulty walking and undertaking everyday tasks that usually wouldn’t be an issue. 

• Reduced Memory Recall

As your brain misfires and struggles you’ll find that it becomes more difficult to recall things, these are things you should know, such as your own phone number.

• Seizures

Seizures are also a common side effect as your brain scrambles the signals to your muscles, causing them to contract violently, effectively causing a localized or even complete body seizure. This can also result in a loss of consciousness.

It’s also possible that you’ll feel pressure and pain where the tumor is. You may struggle with balance, notice changes in your vision, speech, and even your hearing. Muscle weakness, changes in judgment and personality, or an inability to look up can also suggest a brain tumor is present. 

It’s important to get help as soon as possible, even if it’s not a brain tumor, you’ll need the issue identified so that you can start the appropriate treatment.