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Brain Tumour
A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain. It may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and symptoms depend on its size and location.
Causes & risk factors
- Often no clear cause
- Spread from cancer elsewhere in the body (secondary tumours)
- Certain genetic conditions
- Previous radiation to the head
- Risk rises with age
Common symptoms
- New or worsening headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Vision problems
- Weakness or numbness on one side
- Personality or memory changes
- Difficulty with speech or balance
Tests & diagnosis
- MRI brain
- CT scan
- Biopsy
- Blood tests
Treatment & management
- Surgery to remove or reduce the tumour where possible
- Radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy or targeted treatments for some tumours
- Steroids to reduce brain swelling
- Medicines to control seizures and other symptoms
When to see a doctor urgently
- A first seizure, or new weakness, confusion or vision loss — call your local emergency number now
- A severe sudden headache, or headache with vomiting and drowsiness — seek urgent care
- Headaches that are new, worsening or worse in the morning
- Progressive changes in personality, memory or coordination
Frequently asked questions
Are all brain tumours cancer?
No. Many are benign and grow slowly, though even benign tumours can cause problems by pressing on the brain. The type is confirmed by scans and, often, a biopsy.
Do headaches usually mean a brain tumour?
Very rarely. Most headaches are harmless. Warning signs include new or worsening headaches, especially with vomiting, seizures, weakness or vision changes, which should be assessed.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.