Early Warning Signs of Brain Tumours Revealed by Escape to the Country Star
A recent revelation by Escape to the Country star Nicki Chapman about her non-cancerous brain tumour has shed light on the importance of recognizing early warning signs. Chapman shared her experience in her book “So Tell Me What You Want,” detailing how she noticed vision loss and slurred speech, leading to the discovery of a meningioma brain tumour in 2019. While meningioma tumours are typically slow-growing and non-cancerous, they can still pose significant health risks.
Here are some early warning signs of brain tumours highlighted by medical professionals:
- Frequent or worsening headaches, especially those that are persistent, occur in the morning, or wake you up during the night
- Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision
- Difficulty walking, feeling off-balance, or experiencing motor function issues
- Unexplained and persistent nausea or vomiting
- Subtle changes in memory, concentration, or personality
Dr. Chun Tang, a GP and medical director, emphasized the importance of early detection for better outcomes. He advised being proactive about unusual or persistent symptoms and not overlooking subtle signs that could indicate a problem.
According to Dr. Tang, it is crucial to seek medical attention if any of the following occur:
“Difficulty speaking, severe balance issues, or seizures – all warrant immediate attention.”
Furthermore, if symptoms persist for more than a week, become regular, do not respond to over-the-counter treatments, or if there is a decline in coordination and cognitive functions, consulting a healthcare professional is vital. Dr. Tang stressed the importance of not ignoring red flags and erring on the side of caution when it comes to potential brain tumour symptoms.
The Brain Tumour Charity reports that there are over 120 different types of brain tumours, impacting approximately 88,000 individuals in the UK. Alarmingly, brain tumours are noted as the leading cancer killer among those under 40, reducing life expectancy by an average of 27 years.
Increased awareness of these early warning signs and prompt medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals at risk of brain tumours. It is crucial to prioritize brain health and address any concerning symptoms promptly to ensure the best possible prognosis.