When a child is detected with a
brain tumor
, timely treatment is life-saving. However, it is essential to spot these warning signs in children without any delay and initiate prompt intervention. This article sheds light on signs of brain tumors in children that shouldn’t be missed. Parents need to be proactive when it comes to their child’s health.
A brain tumor is a growth of unusual cells in the brain and can be cancerous or non-cancerous.
Just like adults, brain tumors are also a common occurrence in children. It is a known fact that brain tumors are linked to higher morbidity and mortality rates in people of all age groups including children. Timely diagnosis and treatment will help children to improve their quality of life. Parents should pay attention to these signs and symptoms to be able to seek further medical attention and save the child’s life.
Signs and symptoms of brain tumour in children
* Nausea and vomiting: While these symptoms can mimic common ailments like the flu, their persistence, especially when accompanied by headaches, may indicate increased intracranial pressure associated with a brain tumor.
* Persistent headaches: Children with brain tumors often experience chronic headaches, particularly if they worsen in the morning. Persistent and worsening headaches should prompt immediate medical attention.
* Speech, vision, and hearing difficulties: Depending on the tumor's location, children may exhibit various sensory impairments, such as vision or hearing loss, as well as speech difficulties. Parents should promptly consult a doctor if they observe any such symptoms.
Understanding Brain Tumor Diagnosis
* Balance problems: Tumors near the brain stem can disrupt the body's balance mechanism, leading to coordination difficulties and imbalance in affected children.
* Behavioral changes: Any noticeable changes in a child's behavior, including mood swings, withdrawal from activities, irritability, or aggression, should be promptly addressed and evaluated by a healthcare professional.
* Seizures: Brain tumors, especially those situated on the brain's surface, can trigger seizures in affected children. Proper evaluation is essential to determine the underlying cause of seizures and initiate appropriate treatment.
Early diagnosis of brain tumors in children allows healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans based on factors such as tumor location, size, and type. Parents play a critical role in recognizing and responding to potential warning signs, ensuring their child receives timely medical and surgical intervention and the best possible chance for a favorable outcome.
(Author: Dr. Shiji Chalipat, Consultant Pediatric Neurologist, Ankura Hospital, Pune)
English (US) ·