Signs and Symptoms of Brain Cancer in Children The following are the most common symptoms of a brain tumour in children. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the tumour. Many symptoms are related to an increase in pressure in or around the brain. There is no spare space in the skull for anything except the delicate tissues of the brain and its fluid. Any tumour, extra tissue, or fluid can cause pressure on the brain and result in the following symptoms: Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) - caused by extra tissue or fluid in the brain. Pressure may increase because one or more of the ventricles that drain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF, the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord) has been blocked, causing the fluid to be trapped in the brain. Increased ICP can cause the following: o Headache o Vomiting (usually in the morning) o Nausea Researched and Prepared by Prof Michael C Herbst [D Litt et Phil (Health Studies); D N Ed; M Art et Scien; B A Cur; Dip Occupational Health] Approved for Distribution by Ms Elize Joubert, Acting CEO March 2014 Page 9 o Personality changes o Irritability o Drowsiness o Depression o Decreased cardiac and respiratory function and eventually coma if not treated Symptoms vary depending upon which part of the brain the tumour is found. Symptoms of brain tumours in the cerebrum (front of brain) may include: o Seizures o Visual changes o Slurred speech o Paralysis or weakness on half of the body or face o Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) o Drowsiness and/or confusion o Personality changes Symptoms of brain tumours in the brainstem (middle of brain) may include: o Seizures o Endocrine problems (diabetes and/or hormone regulation) o Visual changes or double vision o Headaches o Paralysis of nerves/muscles of the face, or half of the body o Respiratory changes o Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) Symptoms of brain tumours in the cerebellum (back of brain) may include: o Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) o Vomiting (usually occurs in the morning without nausea) o Headache o Uncoordinated muscle movements o Problems walking (ataxia) The symptoms of a brain tumour may resemble other conditions or medical problems – a doctor should be consulted if any of the above symptoms occur and persist. (Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin).
Posted on: Tue, 18 Mar 2014 07:30:08 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015