A brain tumour is an abnormal growth or mass of cells inside or surrounding the brain. These tumours can produce a variety of symptoms and affect brain function. They may be malignant, or cancerous, or benign, or neither. Understanding the symptoms, the causes, and the various therapies and prevention measures will help manage this potentially fatal medical disease.
Causes of brain tumours
Genetic factors: Certain brain cancers have a connection to hereditary disorders. Brain tumour risk factors include disorders including Li-Fraumeni syndrome, neurofibromatosis, and tuberous sclerosis, according to Dr. Aditya Gupta, director of neurosurgery and cyberknife at Artemis hospital in Gurugram.
Gender and age: While brain tumours can affect anyone at any age, certain types are more common in specific age groups. Gliomas, for instance, are more common in adults, but medulloblastomas are more common in children. Men are often more likely than women to get brain tumours.
Symptoms of brain tumours
Headaches: A brain tumour may be the cause of frequent or severe headaches that differ from ordinary headaches. When you move around or in the morning, these headaches could get worse.
Neurological symptoms
Seizures: Sudden, uncontrollably high voltage fluctuations in the brain can cause seizures.
Cognitive changes: Memory problems, confusion, and difficulty focusing could be brought on by a brain tumour.
Sensory and motor loss: This might include problems with speech, balance, or the inability to feel or move a limb.
Vision and hearing issues: A brain tumour may cause changes in vision, such as double vision or loss of peripheral vision, as well as hearing loss, particularly if the symptoms are confined to one side.
Treatment of brain tumours
Surgery: The first step in treatment is typically to surgically remove the tumour, especially if it is easily accessible and can be done so without putting neighbouring brain tissue in danger.
Radiation therapy: To kill tumour cells, high-energy beams are employed in radiation therapy. Targeting any remaining malignant cells after surgery or as a primary treatment when surgery is not an option are common uses for it.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is the process of killing cancer cells with medications. It can be given intravenously or orally, and radiation and surgery are frequently combined with it.
Targeted therapy: This method of treating cancer involves using medications or other substances to specifically target and destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. This therapy is predicated on particular genetic alterations in the cancer cells.
Prevention of brain tumours
Preventing radiation exposure: Reducing exposure to ionising radiation, especially during unnecessary medical imaging tests, can lower the risk of developing brain tumours.
Healthy lifestyle: Reducing the risk of multiple cancers, including brain tumours, can be achieved by leading a balanced diet, getting frequent exercise, and quitting smoking.
Frequent medical check-ups: Early detection and treatment of brain tumours can be facilitated by routine check-ups and knowledge of family medical history.
Brain tumours are complicated growths that can have a major impact on a person’s health and quality of life. Understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and seeking treatment as soon as possible are essential to treating this illness.