Recognizing early signs of brain tumors in adults
Brain tumours can affect anyone, but their symptoms often develop subtly and are easily mistaken for more common conditions such as migraines, anxiety, or stress. However, recognising the early signs of a brain tumour can make a life-saving difference. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention and better treatment outcomes.
At Dr. Rao’s Hospital in Guntur, led by Dr. Mohana Rao Patibandla—one of the best neurosurgeons in Guntur—patients receive world-class care for brain tumours, combining advanced neuroimaging, minimally invasive neurosurgery, and personalized treatment planning.
Understanding Brain Tumours
A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain or surrounding tissues. Tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and their effects depend on their size, location, and growth rate. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), brain and nervous system tumours account for nearly 2% of all cancers worldwide.
Common Types of Brain Tumours in Adults
- Glioblastoma: A highly aggressive malignant brain tumour.
- Meningioma: Usually benign; arises from the membranes covering the brain.
- Pituitary Tumours: Affect hormone production and vision.
- Astrocytoma and Oligodendroglioma: Intermediate-grade tumours of the brain’s supporting cells.
[Source: PubMed – Epidemiology of Brain Tumours]
What Are the Early Signs of Brain Tumour in Adults?
Brain tumour symptoms in adults vary depending on the affected area of the brain. Many symptoms mimic other conditions, making awareness critical for early detection.
1. Persistent Headaches That Don’t Respond to Usual Medication
One of the most common early signs of a brain tumour is a persistent headache that is different from usual tension or migraine headaches. These headaches often:
- Are worse in the morning or after waking up.
- Get progressively more intense over time.
- Occur with nausea or vomiting.
If you have a persistent headache and nausea that lasts beyond a few days or does not respond to medication, it’s time to consult a neurosurgeon.
2. Seizures (Fits)
Even a single seizure episode in an adult without a prior history of epilepsy could indicate a brain tumour. Tumours can irritate nearby brain tissue, causing electrical disturbances that lead to seizures.
3. Vision and Hearing Changes
Blurry vision, double vision, loss of peripheral vision, or sudden hearing loss can occur when tumours affect the optic or auditory nerves. For instance, pituitary tumours commonly cause vision problems due to pressure on the optic chiasm.
4. Personality and Behavioural Changes
Subtle shifts in behaviour, irritability, or memory problems may indicate a tumour in the frontal lobe—the brain’s area responsible for reasoning and emotional control. Family members often notice these changes first.
5. Balance and Coordination Problems
Tumours in the cerebellum can lead to unsteady walking, dizziness, and balance difficulties. These symptoms are often accompanied by headaches or nausea.
6. Speech and Cognitive Difficulties
Difficulty finding words, slurred speech, or confusion in understanding language can occur in tumours affecting the temporal or parietal lobes.
7. Weakness or Numbness in Limbs
If you notice weakness, tingling, or numbness on one side of the body, it could signify a tumour compressing motor pathways in the brain. These symptoms should not be ignored, especially if they develop gradually.
When to See a Neurosurgeon for Headaches or Neurological Symptoms
Not every headache means a tumour—but certain “red flag” symptoms indicate the need to see a neurosurgeon urgently:
- Persistent or worsening headaches despite medication
- Headaches accompanied by vomiting or visual disturbances
- New-onset seizures or fainting spells
- Changes in personality, mood, or memory
- Weakness, speech problems, or coordination issues
At Dr. Rao’s Hospital Neurology Department, patients undergo detailed neurological assessments and advanced imaging like MRI and CT scans for early detection and accurate diagnosis.
Diagnosis and Tests for Brain Tumours
Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of successful treatment. The diagnostic approach includes:
- Neurological Examination: Checks reflexes, coordination, and sensory function.
- Neuroimaging: MRI or CT scan to locate and assess tumour characteristics.
- Biopsy: For confirming tumour type and grade.
- Hormone and Vision Tests: For pituitary or optic nerve involvement.
[Source: Mayo Clinic – Brain Tumour Diagnosis]
Brain Tumour Treatment in Guntur at Dr. Rao’s Hospital
Dr. Rao’s Hospital is recognized as one of the best neurosurgery hospitals in Guntur and Andhra Pradesh for brain tumour treatment. Led by Dr. Mohana Rao Patibandla, a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon with expertise in minimally invasive and skull base brain surgery, the hospital provides:
- Advanced neuro-navigation and intraoperative imaging
- Microsurgical and endoscopic tumour removal
- Comprehensive neuro-oncology and rehabilitation
- Personalized care for benign and malignant brain tumours
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery for knife less tumor surgery
Patients across Andhra Pradesh trust Dr. Rao’s Hospital Guntur for safe and precise brain tumour surgeries.
Living with a Brain Tumour: Hope with Early Detection
While the term “brain tumour” sounds alarming, advances in neurosurgery have dramatically improved outcomes. Many benign tumours can be fully removed, and even malignant types can be controlled with surgery, radiation, and targeted therapy.
Awareness of brain tumour warning signs—such as persistent headaches, seizures, and vision problems—can help detect issues early, when treatment is most effective. Early consultation with a qualified neurosurgeon in Guntur ensures the best possible recovery.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent headaches, seizures, or neurological changes, don’t ignore them. Visit Dr. Rao’s Hospital—the leading brain tumour hospital in Guntur—for expert evaluation and treatment by Dr. Mohana Rao Patibandla, one of the best neurosurgeons in Andhra Pradesh. Contact us at 📞 090100 56444 or 📧 info@drraoshospitals.com.
What are the first signs of a brain tumour?
Early signs include persistent headaches, seizures, vision changes, memory issues, and personality changes. Seek immediate evaluation if symptoms persist.
When should I consult a neurosurgeon for headaches?
If headaches are persistent, severe, or accompanied by nausea, vision issues, or seizures, it’s essential to consult a neurosurgeon for timely diagnosis.
Why choose Dr. Rao’s Hospital for brain tumour treatment?
At Dr. Rao’s Hospital, led by Dr. Mohana Rao Patibandla, one of the best neurosurgeons in Guntur, patients receive advanced, minimally invasive, and compassionate care using modern neurosurgical techniques.
Follow Dr. Rao’s Hospital