**7 Subtle Signs Brain Tumour Patients Miss Because They Don’t ‘Affect Their Life’**
Doctors have highlighted seven subtle changes that people with brain tumours might overlook, leading to delayed medical attention. Often, individuals experiencing issues related to memory, senses, or a general feeling of being unwell choose to carry on without seeking help. This is because they believe symptoms must be severe and constant before consulting a doctor. However, this delay in seeking medical assistance can impact the speed of diagnosis, which is crucial for effective treatment.
TV presenter Davina McCall recently revealed that she was scheduled for surgery to address a brain tumour discovered during a routine check-up. While details about any symptoms she experienced before the diagnosis remain undisclosed, a study by King’s College London and Cambridge University suggested that many patients might encounter multiple subtle changes before being diagnosed. Recognising these early signs could lead to earlier detection and referral for treatment.
Dr. Suzanne Scott from King’s College London emphasised the importance of addressing these subtle changes that patients may overlook. These include alterations in sleep patterns, memory, speech, concentration, balance, sensations, and a general feeling of being ‘not oneself.’ Patients often dismiss these signs as mild, intermittent, or unrelated to anything serious. Therefore, challenging the belief that symptoms must be severe to warrant medical attention is crucial in promoting timely diagnosis of brain tumours.
A 2019 study involving 39 adult patients diagnosed with primary brain cancer in England revealed that many attributed these subtle changes to factors like aging, stress, or tiredness, assuming they were not significant. Some hesitated to consult a doctor about seemingly minor issues, fearing they would be wasting the physician’s time or felt it was unnecessary if there were more pressing matters at hand. Additionally, revisiting the doctor after receiving initial reassurances posed challenges for some patients.
The researchers stressed the need for increased awareness campaigns and interventions to encourage earlier medical consultations among individuals experiencing subtle changes potentially linked to brain tumours. By dispelling the notion that symptoms must be severe to be significant, more patients might seek timely medical advice, leading to improved outcomes. Early detection plays a vital role in the effective management and treatment of brain tumours, highlighting the importance of recognising and acting upon these subtle signs.
**Summary**
Recognising the early signs of brain tumours is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. Patients often overlook subtle changes in memory, senses, and overall well-being, assuming they are insignificant. Increasing awareness about these signs and encouraging individuals to seek medical help promptly can lead to improved outcomes and better management of brain tumours. Addressing the misconception that symptoms must be severe to be concerning is crucial in promoting timely diagnosis and intervention. By highlighting these subtle signs, healthcare professionals aim to expedite the detection and referral processes for individuals at risk of brain tumours.