Brain Tumors and Pain
Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatments
Could My Headache Be A Brain Tumor?
Headaches are a normal part of life. Stress, tension, and a multitude of other triggers can cause pain in the head, face, or neck. However, sometimes a headache can mean more. While rare, brain tumors can be the source of new and frequent headaches. If you have not experienced headaches before and start to have noticeable pain, you may want to understand more about the signs and symptoms of brain tumors.
How Can I Tell When It’s Not Just A Headache?
If you are a regular headache sufferer, it’s more likely that there is a common underlying cause of your pain. However, if your headaches have started more recently and are picking up in severity and occurrence, it may be cause for more concern.
Headache Symptoms of Brain Tumors
New or worsening headaches
Pain lasts for days or weeks
Pain wakes you in the night
Pain intensifies with movement or positioning
Additionally, a tumor may cause other symptoms
Changes in vision
Fatigue
Weakness on one-side
Difficulty with concentration
Weight loss
Emotional or personality changes such as anger, isolation, or confusion
What Are The Types of Brain Tumors?
Primary Tumors
Primary brain tumors are tumors that originate in the brain or spinal cord and continue their growth confined to that region.
Metastatic Tumors
Many brain tumors are secondary tumors; spread from cancer cells or tumors located in other parts of the body.
When Should I Talk To My Doctor About A Diagnosis?
If you have a recently occurring headache that is worsening over time and isn’t subsiding, it may be time to speak with a physician. After discussing your medical history and current symptoms, imaging such as CT or MRI will be used to understand more about the cause of your headaches and how best to treat the underlying cause or tumor if present.
What Treatments Are Available?
As brain tumors are often concurrent with other cancer diagnoses, it’s essential to coordinate care among providers to ensure the best outcomes. Treatment often depends on the location of the tumor, whether it is primary or secondary, and needs to take into account other current medical needs.
Potential Treatments:
- Surgery
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
How Can Dr. de Lotbinière Help?
Dr. de Lotbinière is a pioneering neurosurgeon and expert on complex pain conditions. Whether your pain is caused by a common underlying condition, cancer, or tumor he can provide advanced treatment options to help you find relief. He is accepting patients at both his New York and Connecticut offices.