Brain tumours in young adults can be difficult to spot early. But certain signs, like vision changes or seizures, should never be brushed off (Image: Canva)
No one thinks of brain tumour when dealing with a bad headache or sudden fatigue in their 20s or 30s. However, studies suggest that brain tumours don’t discriminate by age. While they’re less common in young adults, they do happen, and they often show up with symptoms that are subtle or easily misdiagnosed.
Brain tumours are abnormal growths of cells within the brain. Some are benign, while others can be malignant and aggressive. “In young adults, tumours often present differently and may get dismissed as stress, anxiety, or even migraines,” explains Dr Ravindra Srivastava, Senior Consultant, Neurosciences (Brain & Spine), Sharda Care Healthcity, Greater Noida. “This delay in diagnosis can be dangerous. It’s important to pay attention to how your brain is behaving. If something feels off, it’s worth digging deeper,”
Dr Srivastava shares 7 warning signs of brain tumours in young adults
Persistent or unusual headaches: Headaches that don’t feel normal and get worse over time, especially early in the morning, can point to increased pressure inside the skull. “If regular painkillers don’t help, it’s a red flag,” says Dr Srivastava.
Unexplained nausea or vomiting: Feeling nauseous or vomiting without a clear cause? This could be more than just a stomach bug. Brain tumours can affect pressure and fluids in the brain, leading to these early symptoms, particularly in the mornings.
Seizures or convulsions: Having a seizure when you’ve never had one before is a serious warning sign. “Even small muscle twitches or momentary confusion should be evaluated,” says Dr Srivastava. Tumours can disrupt the brain’s electrical circuits.
Vision or hearing changes: Sudden blurriness, seeing double, or hearing ringing sounds (tinnitus) might seem unrelated, but they could be signs of pressure on the parts of the brain that control sensory input.
Difficulty with balance or coordination: Walking into walls or dropping things more than usual? A tumour affecting the cerebellum can disrupt your balance and fine motor skills. Don’t brush off clumsiness as just being tired.
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Cognitive or personality changes: Is someone suddenly acting out of character? Mood swings, memory issues, or trouble focusing can all indicate a problem in the brain’s frontal lobe. “This is especially concerning when it appears out of the blue,” cautions Dr Srivastava.
Numbness or weakness: If you suddenly feel numbness or weakness particularly on one side of the body, it could be a tumour pressing against motor-control regions. “This kind of asymmetry is often missed until it becomes severe,” he adds.
Prevention tips:
Once you’re aware of the risks, simple habits can help reduce them. Eat a balanced diet, stay active, and cut back on processed foods. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to protect your brain health.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.