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Brain cancer

What is brain cancer?

Brain cancer is a collection of brain cells that have grown out of control. This is commonly referred to as a brain tumour. Brain tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

What are the symptoms?

It’s important to remember that many symptoms, such as headaches, are extremely common and experiencing one with no other symptom is rarely a sign of brain cancer.

However, being aware of the possible symptoms of a brain tumour can help you know when to act.

Contact your GP practice if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Headaches that are new for you, getting steadily worse, occur most days and especially if they have any of the following features: worse in the morning or wake you up at night; worse when you cough, strain, bend over or shout; make you feel sick or vomit; not helped by painkillers.
  • Seizures or fits – these could be twitching or jerking your arm, leg, face or whole body, or could be absent spells.
  • New memory problem or difficulties concentrating, planning and problem solving.
  • Vision loss, blurred vision or double vision, especially if occurs quickly.
  • Speech difficulties – includes slurred speech, problems with understanding and saying or finding words.
  • Loss of power or sensation in your face, arms or legs.
  • Loss of balance, including stumbling when walking, dizziness or unsteady walking.

You may be asked to visit a local optician first to undertake an eye examination before making an appointment with your GP practice.

Paul Brennan

Paul Brennan, Professor of Neurosurgery, NHS Lothian

Brain tumours are fortunately rare. The symptoms most commonly associated, such as a headache, are much more likely to be due to something else, not cancer. Earlier diagnosis of brain tumours is important, because the treatments that are available may be more effective, and people are less likely to get side effects from the treatment. If you are worried, get checked out.

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What's involved in getting checked?

If you notice possible symptoms, it’s important to get checked. Any symptoms are probably as a result of something less serious than cancer, but it is important to see a health professional, and for some symptoms, go to A&E immediately.

  • To get a clearer picture of what’s going on, you will be asked some questions about your symptoms, how long you’ve had them and also about your general health and if you have had a recent eye test.
  • Depending on your symptoms, simple tests of your nervous system maybe done (reflexes, eye movement, hearing, etc).
  • They may also examine other areas of your body, to see if you have any other related symptoms, such as feeling for any swelling and listening to your chest to find out if everything sounds normal.
  • After checking you over, your primary care clinician may be able to reassure you that there is no cause for concern, or alternatively refer you to a hospital for further tests, or optometrist to further examine your eyes, or give you advice when you need review if symptoms change or persist.

What to do if you or someone else has symptoms?

Go to A&E
If your symptoms are sudden or severe (such as a seizure or loss of consciousness), go straight to A&E or call 999.

Contact your GP practice
If you are experiencing persistent symptoms that are unusual for you, contact your GP practice. Tell them your symptoms and how long you have had them for.

Get an eye test
If your symptoms are limited to a change to your vision and/or headache, get your eyes tested by an optician as well as contacting your GP practice.