Warning signs of a headache that could be a brain tumor

Neurologist Steven Allder, at cognitive health service Re:Cognition Health (UK), told the Independent that headaches are a common symptom of brain tumours, occurring in about 50-60% of patients.

“The mechanisms by which brain tumors cause headaches include increased intracranial pressure, direct irritation, and changes in blood flow. The tumor can take up space in the skull, causing swelling or blocking the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, leading to increased pressure on the brain,” explains Steven Allder, MD.

Do not be subjective with headaches

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Additionally, the tumor can press on or stretch blood vessels and nerves, causing pain. The tumor can also disrupt normal blood flow in the brain, causing headaches.

However, headaches associated with brain tumors also have distinct characteristics that help distinguish them from other types of headaches.

Unlike a typical tension headache or migraine, a headache caused by a brain tumor is persistent and gets worse in intensity and frequency, says Dr. Steven Allder. Headaches in a specific area are also a sign of a brain tumor due to pressure or blocked fluid.

When intracranial pressure increases due to a tumor or a tumor directly affecting the brain, in addition to headaches, the body also experiences symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, neurological signs such as changes in vision (blurred vision or double vision), seizures, muscle weakness or paralysis.

Another expert, Dr Peter Abel, senior lecturer in biomedical science at the University of Central Lancashire (UK), specializing in neuro-oncology, added that people with brain tumors may experience headaches more often in the morning or after a night's sleep, because lying down for a long time can increase pressure on the brain.

Unlike regular headaches, headaches related to brain tumours often do not respond well to over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin. This is an important warning sign, says Dr Steven Allder.

The doctor also advises that people at higher risk, such as those with a history of cancer or a weakened immune system, should seek prompt medical advice or emergency medical care if they experience unusual headaches.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/dau-hieu-canh-bao-quan-trong-con-dau-dau-co-the-la-u-nao-18525040118023827.htm