Brain Tumours

Overview

A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells inside the brain or nearby tissues. The growth can be non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). It can press on and damage parts of the brain, causing symptoms.

Brain tumours are not common, but they affect thousands of people each year. In the UK, around 12,000 people are diagnosed with a primary brain tumour each year.

Brain tumours can happen at any age. Some types are more common in children, while others are more common in older adults. Most brain tumours are not inherited, but a few genetic conditions can increase risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Headaches, especially new or persistent ones that are worse in the morning
• Seizures (fits or convulsions)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling very sleepy or tired
• Changes in vision, hearing, or speech
• Weakness or numbness in one side of the body
• Problems with balance or walking
• Personality or mood changes

Symptoms in children

• Unusual vomiting, especially in the morning
• Changes in school performance or behaviour
• Balance problems or tilting the head to one side
• Seizures
• Blurry vision or unusual eye movements
• Headaches, though these are less common in young children

Symptoms in older adults

• Increasing confusion or memory loss
• Difficulty walking or falls
• Personality changes
• Slurred speech or trouble finding words
• Vision problems (blurring, double vision, or loss of vision)
• Headaches can occur but may be less obvious than other symptoms

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of most brain tumours is not known. Brain cells change and grow out of control for reasons that are not fully understood.

Risk factors

• Previous radiation therapy to the head
• Certain inherited genetic conditions (for example, neurofibromatosis)
• A family history of brain tumours (rare)
• Age – some types are more common in children, others in older adults

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any of the emergency symptoms listed above, call emergency services immediately.
• If you have a new, persistent headache or any symptoms that might suggest a brain problem, contact your GP that day.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a headache that lasts for more than a few days and does not respond to usual over-the-counter pain relief (like paracetamol or ibuprofen – these are general examples, not specific advice), make a routine appointment.
• If you notice any gradual changes in memory, balance, vision, or mood, see your doctor.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical and neurological examination. If they suspect a brain tumour, they will refer you to a specialist (a neurologist or neurosurgeon) for further tests.

Tests that may be done

• Neurological examination – checking your reflexes, balance, vision, coordination, and memory
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan – uses strong magnets to create detailed images of the brain
• CT (computed tomography) scan – uses X-rays to make cross-sectional images
• Sometimes a biopsy – a small piece of the tumour is removed and examined under a microscope

What to expect at your appointment

If a brain tumour is found, you will meet a team of specialists who will explain the type, location, and treatment options. You may need more tests to plan the best treatment. The team will support you through each step.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, size, location, and growth rate of the tumour, as well as your age and overall health. The goal may be to cure the tumour, control its growth, or relieve symptoms. A team of doctors and nurses will create a plan with you.

Self-care at home

• Follow your treatment plan and attend all appointments.
• Rest when you need to, and pace your daily activities.
• Write down any new symptoms or changes to discuss with your team.
• Ask family or friends for help with daily tasks like cooking, shopping, and transport.
• Keep a diary of how you feel – it can help you and your doctors.

Medical treatments

Treatment may include surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible, radiotherapy using high-energy rays to destroy tumour cells, and different types of medicines to control symptoms like swelling, seizures, or headaches. Some patients may receive chemotherapy or targeted therapy. The exact medicine or combination will be chosen by your specialist team based on your situation.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is often the first treatment if the tumour can be safely removed without damaging critical parts of the brain. Sometimes only part of the tumour is removed, and then other treatments, like radiotherapy, may be used to treat the remaining tissue.

Living with this condition

Living with a brain tumour can be challenging. You may need to adjust your daily routine, take breaks, and accept help from others. Keep open communication with your loved ones and your medical team.

Lifestyle tips

• Try to keep a regular daily routine as much as possible.
• Do gentle activities you enjoy, if your energy allows (like short walks or light stretching).
• Avoid smoking and limit or avoid alcohol, as these can affect your health.
• Get enough rest and sleep – your body needs time to recover.
• Consider physiotherapy or occupational therapy to help with movement or daily tasks.

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. If you have trouble swallowing or lose your appetite, ask to see a dietitian for advice. Gentle exercise, like walking, can improve your mood and energy, but stop if you feel unwell and always check with your team first.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A brain tumour diagnosis is a major life event. It is normal to feel sad, anxious, or angry. Talking to a counsellor, psychologist, or a support group can help. You do not have to face this alone – reach out for emotional support.

Prevention

Most brain tumours cannot be prevented because the cause is usually unknown. You can lower your general cancer risk by avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but there is no guaranteed way to prevent a brain tumour.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine that prevents brain tumours.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for brain tumours in the general population. Tests are done when symptoms suggest the need.

Complications

If left untreated

• Untreated brain tumours can grow and cause increased pressure inside the skull, leading to more severe brain damage.
• They can cause worsening seizures, weakness, speech trouble, and loss of coordination.
• They can eventually be life-threatening.

Long-term outlook

The outlook varies greatly depending on the type, location, and stage of the tumour. Many brain tumours can be treated successfully, and some can be cured. Even when a cure is not possible, treatment can control the tumour and help you live well for many years. Your specialists will give you an honest and hopeful outlook based on your specific situation.

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