What it is
Brain tumours can affect people of any age, including children. The cause of most is unknown.
Treatment depends on the type, size and location and may include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Some slow-growing tumours are just monitored with regular scans.
Common signs
- Headaches that are new, persistent and often worse in the morning
- Seizures
- Feeling or being sick
- Changes in personality, memory or behaviour
- Weakness, vision or speech problems
How it is usually diagnosed
- Neurological examination
- MRI or CT scan
- Biopsy or analysis of the removed tumour
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- MRI and CT reports, with dates to compare
- Pathology reports with tumour type and grade
- Neurosurgery and oncology letters
- Seizure diary and medicines
Questions to ask your doctor
- What type and grade of tumour is it?
- What are the treatment options and their side effects?
- Can I drive, and what support is available?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A first seizure, a sudden severe headache, or sudden weakness, confusion or loss of consciousness: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.