New Delhi: Brain tumour is a leading health burden across the world. In India, around 40,000 to 50,000 people are diagnosed with a brain tumour each year, as per reports. Out of these, about 20 per cent are children. Some of the symptoms of brain tumours include headaches, seizures, problems in speaking, personality changes, weakness, dizziness, vision issues and more. But have you ever thought that eye problems can also cause brain tumours?
Ahead of Brain Tumor Awareness Day, it’s vital to highlight the subtle yet significant symptoms that might indicate the presence of a brain tumour.
Dr Amit Dhakoji, Consultant Neurosurgeon, Manipal Hospital, Pune told News9, “Blurred vision is one such symptom that can easily be dismissed but may be an early sign of this serious condition. By understanding the various symptoms and available treatments, we can promote early detection and improve outcomes for those affected by brain tumours.”
Blurred Vision as a Symptom
Blurred vision can result from benign causes like eye strain or refractive errors. However, when it persists and is accompanied by other symptoms, it warrants immediate medical attention. Here’s why blurred vision can be a sign of a brain tumour:
1. Pressure on the Optic Nerve: Tumours in or near the brain’s visual pathways can exert pressure on the optic nerve, leading to blurred vision, double vision, or even vision loss.
2. Increased Intracranial Pressure: As a tumour grows, it can increase the pressure within the skull, which can affect the optic nerves and visual centres in the brain, causing visual disturbances.
3. Hormonal Changes: Tumours affecting the pituitary gland can alter hormone levels, indirectly affecting vision by impacting eye health and function.
Other Symptoms of Brain tumours
In addition to blurred vision, brain tumours can present with a variety of other symptoms:
1. Headaches: Persistent and worsening headaches, particularly in the morning or when lying down.
2. Seizures: Sudden onset of seizures in someone without a prior history of epilepsy.
3. Cognitive and Behavioral Changes: Memory problems, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and personality changes.
4. Motor and Sensory Deficits: Weakness or numbness in limbs, difficulty with balance and coordination.
5. Nausea and Vomiting: Unexplained and persistent nausea and vomiting, especially in the morning.
6. Hearing and Speech Issues: Hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
Diagnosing Brain Tumors
If symptoms suggest a brain tumour, several diagnostic tools can be used:
– Neurological Examination: To evaluate motor and sensory functions.
– Imaging Tests: MRI and CT scans are essential for visualizing the tumour.
– Biopsy: A tissue sample may be taken to determine the tumour type.
Treatment Options for Brain Tumors
Treatment varies based on the type, location, and size of the tumour, as well as the patient’s overall health:
1. Surgery
– Often the first step is to remove as much of the tumour as possible.
– Minimally invasive techniques can reduce damage to surrounding tissues.
2. Radiation Therapy
– High-energy beams are used to kill tumour cells and shrink the tumour.
– Can be used post-surgery or as a primary treatment.
3. Chemotherapy
– Involves drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.
– Can be administered orally or intravenously.
4. Targeted Therapy
– Focuses on specific genetic changes in cancer cells.
– Typically has fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.
5. Supportive Care
– Aims to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
– Includes medications, physical therapy, and psychological support.
Ahead of Brain Tumor Awareness Day, it’s vital to highlight the subtle yet significant symptoms that might indicate the presence of a brain tumour. Blurred vision can result from benign causes like eye strain or refractive errors. However, when it persists and is accompanied by other symptoms, it warrants immediate medical attention. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
