Brain tumors – Symptoms and treatment

A tumor in the brain is quite different from tumors in other parts of the body. This is because the skull is limited in its size, and so, it offers limited space for the development of tumors. Tumor in the brain suppresses the important parts of the brain and leads to chronic health conditions.

Brain tumor occurs when an abnormal mass of cells forms within the brain. The brain has its own mechanism for dealing with cells. When cells become old, they die and wear off, and new cells start taking their place. However, sometimes, this process does not go about as expected. New cells start forming and old cells do not die as expected after getting damaged. Thus, it leads to the formation of an excess mass of cells leading to tumors.

A primary brain tumor develops in the brain and this can occur to people of any age. In fact, it can be found in children as well. According to Mark R. Gilbert, brain tumor expert at National Institutes of Health (NIH), there are more than 130 types of brain tumor in the primary category. Many people in the U.S. suffer from primary brain tumor.

Other types of tumors are known as metastatic tumors. These tumors spread from the other parts of the body to the brain. These types of tumor are relatively more common. Primary and metastatic brain tumors may have similar symptoms. The location of the tumor decides the symptoms of the tumor. Seizure is also a symptom of brain tumor. Three in ten people experience seizures. Some subtle symptoms are memory problems and weakness.

MRI and CT scans are used to detect brain tumors. “Brain imaging technology has really changed the way we are able to visualize abnormalities,” Gilbert explains.

Brain tumor may be treated by surgery or by radiating high energy rays at the tumor. The treatment of brain tumors needs a team of medical care personnel, which includes surgeons, cancer specialists and nurses. The team also helps in improving the quality of life of patients.

Source: newsinhealth.nih.gov