With the exception of the cerebellum, a tumor on one side of the brain causes symptoms and impairment on the opposite side of the body. For example, a tumor on the left side of the brain may cause numbness in the right arm. As a brain tumor grows, it invades the healthy tissue in the brain, often causing further deterioration. Because of the limited space within the skull, the tumor may place pressure on the brain. There may also be a buildup of fluid around the tumor, a condition known as edema.
Headaches are the most common presenting symptom for patients with brain tumors.
Since all of these symptoms can be caused by other problems, you must be seen by a physician to have your symptoms properly evaluated. Your physician may refer you to a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the brain and central nervous system, or to an oncologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer. The information provided through OncoLink should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.