Causes, risk factors and symptoms of Brain tumor

Been diagnosed with a brain tumor, the most worrisome issue the cause behind the same. The exact reason for a brain tumor is not known yet.  It is being researched whether individuals having certain risk factors can be more likely to develop a brain tumor than others. Risk factors are something which could raise the chances of having a disease.

Risk factors associated with Brain Tumor:

Ionizing Radiation

Ionizing radiations from the high dose x-rays (i.e. radiation therapy from large machine aiming at head) and other sources could lead to damage of cells causing a tumor. Individuals exposed to the ionizing radiation could be at an increased risk of having a brain tumor-like glioma or meningioma.

Family History

Brain tumor running in a family is something rare. Only very few families comprise of many members having brain tumors. As per progressive studies were done by researchers, attempts are being made to analyze if the use of mobile phones, head injury or being exposed to magnetic fields or to some chemicals at work are important risk factors. Studies so far haven’t shown the consistent association amongst brain tumors and such possible risk factors, however, additional research is required.

Symptoms of Brain Tumor

Symptoms of a brain tumor depend on the size of tumors, location, and type. Symptoms may be caused if a tumor puts pressure on a nerve or hurts an area of the brain. They also may be a result due to tumor blocking the fluid which flows through & around our brain or when our brain swells due to the buildup of the fluid.

Most common brain tumor symptoms are:-

• Nausea & vomiting
• Headaches
• Changes in vision, speech, and hearing
• Changes in personality, mood, and ability to concentrate
• Problems walking or balancing
• Problems with memories
• Tingling or Numbness in legs or arms
• Muscle twitching or jerk (convulsions or seizures)

Mostly such symptoms don’t occur because of brain tumor. Some other health issues can cause them. If we have any of those symptoms, we shall update our doctor so that the issues could be diagnosed & treated.