11 Under-the-Radar Symptoms of Brain Tumors That Could Be Warning Signs

Brain tumors can be tricky to spot because the symptoms are often subtle and easily mistaken for everyday health issues.

According to a study, several signs were linked to brain tumors, and many of them might surprise you. It’s important to pay attention to these warning signs, even if they seem small.

Here’s what the study uncovered about subtle symptoms of brain tumors to watch out for.¹

1. If You Have Unexplained Headaches That Keep Coming Back

When headaches won’t go away or get worse, it could be more than just stress. You might feel a deep, throbbing pain, especially in the morning or when you change positions. 

Sometimes, headaches from a brain tumor come with nausea or dizziness (vertigo). If these headaches don’t respond to your usual treatments, or you notice other symptoms like blurred vision, it’s time to see a doctor.

2. You Start to Notice That Your Eyesight Is Getting Worse over Time

If your vision is getting blurry, or you start seeing double, it could be a sign something is wrong in your brain. Tumors can press on the optic nerves, affecting how well you see.

You might also have trouble seeing things on the sides, like peripheral vision problems. 

If these changes happen slowly or without an obvious cause, it’s important to get an eye test and talk to a healthcare professional.

3. You Have Trouble Hearing or Things Sound Different Than Before

Hearing loss or changes in the way things sound, like ringing in your ears (tinnitus), could be linked to a brain tumor. Sometimes, it feels like you’re hearing from one ear less than the other, or you may hear muffled sounds.

If your hearing doesn’t return to normal or keeps getting worse, this might be a sign of a tumor affecting the nerves related to hearing. An ear exam and a hearing test can help catch these issues early.

4. You Suddenly Start Having Seizures

If you’ve never had seizures before and suddenly experience one, it could be a warning sign. New-onset seizures might involve shaking, twitching, or blacking out unexpectedly. 

If this happens, it’s important to see a doctor right away, as new seizures could be linked to changes in the brain, like a tumor. Epilepsy is a feature of some brain tumors, particularly in younger patients. 

5. You Feel Confused More Often Than Usual

If you’re forgetting things easily, having trouble concentrating, or feeling disoriented for no reason, this could point to a brain problem. Brain tumors can affect how well you think, making you feel mentally foggy or confused about simple tasks. 

You might also struggle with making decisions, which used to come easily. If this confusion happens more often, check with a doctor who can run tests to see what’s causing it.

6. You Struggle to Find Words or Speak Clearly

When it’s hard to get words out or speak in full sentences, this could be a sign of dysphasia, a condition where brain tumors affect language areas. 

You might know what you want to say but can’t express it, or you might mix up words. If this happens frequently or worsens, it’s important to get it checked by a doctor, who may recommend a speech evaluation or imaging tests.

7. You Feel Numb on One Side of Your Body

Feeling numbness on one side, known as hemiplegia, is a serious sign. This can happen if a brain tumor presses on areas that control movement. 

You might notice your arm or leg feels heavy, or you lose grip strength. If you feel like only one side of your body isn’t working like it used to, it’s important to see a doctor who can assess your reflexes and run tests to understand the cause.

8. Your Muscles Feel Weaker Than They Used To

Brain tumors can also cause motor weakness, where your muscles feel weak even without much exertion. You might struggle to lift things that used to be easy or have difficulty with simple tasks like climbing stairs. 

If you notice your muscles aren’t as strong and this weakness continues to get worse, it’s a sign to visit a doctor, who may test your muscle strength and coordination.

9. You Notice Changes in Your Mood or Behavior That Are out of Character

Sudden shifts in your mood or personality could indicate that a brain tumor is affecting parts of your brain that control emotions. You might feel more irritable, anxious, or even depressed, without a clear reason. 

Friends or family may point out that you don’t seem like yourself. If these changes happen over time and seem unusual for you, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor, who may recommend brain imaging to check for underlying causes.

10. You Feel Tired All the Time, Even When You’ve Had Enough Rest

Constant fatigue can be a symptom of a brain tumor, as your body uses energy to fight it. You may feel drained even after a good night’s sleep, and simple activities might leave you exhausted. 

This can also be linked to anxiety or depression, which often come with fatigue. If you notice this ongoing tiredness, it’s important to consult a doctor who can run tests to check for any underlying cause, including a tumor.

11. You Forget Things More Often, Even Simple Stuff

Memory loss, like forgetting names, appointments, or tasks, may indicate a brain tumor. These tumors can disrupt brain areas responsible for memory. 

You might struggle to remember things that used to come easily, and this forgetfulness can affect daily life. If memory issues become more frequent, it’s wise to consult a doctor, who may recommend memory tests or brain scans to check for any abnormalities.

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, it’s important to seek medical advice and explore the possibility of a deeper cause. Trust your instincts and get the help you need to stay informed and healthy.

Source:

1. British Journal of General Practice