A brain tumour, known as an intracranial tumour, is an abnormal mass of tissue in which cells grow and multiply uncontrollably, seemingly unchecked by the mechanisms that control normal cells.
More than 150 different brain tumours have been documented, but the two main groups of brain tumours are termed as malignant (cancerous) and benign (not cancerous).
Signs and symptoms: Headache or pressure in the head that is worse in the morning, headaches that happen more often and seem more severe, nausea or vomiting, eye problems, trouble with balance, feeling very tired, feeling dizziness, vomiting, hungry and gaining weight.
Besides, confusion in everyday matters, memory problems and personality or behavior changes are common in this case.
Who are at risk?
Age is a risk factor in brain tumours. The older you get the higher the risk. Being overweight or obese can also slightly increase your risk. If you have had radiotherapy treatment before can also increase your risk slightly.
Examinations: In general, diagnosing a brain tumour usually begins with MRIs and CT scans. Once MRI shows that there is a tumour in the brain, the most common way to determine the type of brain tumour is to look at the results from a sample of tissue after a biopsy or surgery.
Treatment: Brain tumours are treated with surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Our doctors also are studying a vaccine for treating a recurrent cancer of the central nervous system that occurs primarily in the brain, known as glioma. Depending on your needs, several methods may be used.
Besides, targeted drug therapy, tumour treating fields, clinical trials, follow-up care and rehabilitation are also applicable in this case.
Prevention: Adequate sleep, consuming a diet rich in cancer-fighting nutrients, limit exposure to mobile phones, avoid smoking, regular physical exercise etc. Make an appointment with brain tumour specialists with expertise in neurology, neurosurgery and radiation oncology if you have persistent signs and symptoms that worry you.
Dr Muhammad Mahtab Hossain Mazed,
Founder Chairman, Jatiya Rogi Kalyan
Society, columnist and researcher,
Email: [email protected]
Hotline: 01822-869389
