Noticing symptoms
Cancers and other diseases can cause symptoms. These are changes in your body that you notice. Examples of symptoms are having a headache or noticing a weakness in a part of your body.
Symptoms can be caused by many illnesses, but it is always best to have them checked out by a GP.
What you need to know
Brain cancer symptoms
Symptoms that may be caused by brain and spinal cord tumours include:
- headaches
- seizures
- confusion or drowsiness
- difficulty speaking, for example having trouble finding the right words, or speaking in a way that is garbled or cannot be understood
- difficulty understanding what other people say
- changes in personality or behaviour
- nausea and vomiting
- double vision or decreased vision
- hearing problems
- weakness or change in sensation in part of the body
- problems with balance or coordination.
Some symptoms can seem minor but they should not be ignored, especially if they have been present for a while.
Most symptoms are not caused by cancer, but it is always best to let your doctor know about any symptoms you have. Cancers that are diagnosed early can be easier to treat.
Next steps
What to do if you have symptoms
If you have symptoms that you are worried about, even if they seem minor, you should go to see a GP. Don't be embarrassed to bring up your concerns.
Remember, cancers that are found earlier can be easier to treat.