Brain Tumors: Primary - Symptoms

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Other Significant Symptoms

• Gradual loss of movement or sensation in an arm or leg
• Unsteadiness
• Unexpected visual disturbance (especially if it is associated with headache), including vision loss (usually of peripheral vision) in one or both eyes or double vision
• Hearing loss with or without dizziness
• Speech difficulty

Symptoms Associated with Specific Tumors

Specific symptom syndromes may help identify the tumor. The following are some examples.

Symptoms of Brain Stem Gliomas. Sudden onset of symptoms that include vomiting (usually just after waking), a clumsy walk, muscle weakness on one side of the face, difficulty in swallowing, slurred or nasal speech, as well as impaired hearing or vision.

Symptoms of Glioblastoma Multiforme. Rapid onset and worsening of symptoms that include headaches, seizures, memory loss, and changes in behavior.

Life-Threatening Syndromes

The below symptoms indicate an emergency condition and require immediate medical attention:

• Pupil dilation
• A fixed gaze
• Paralysis on one or both sides of the body
• Blindness or defective vision in one eye

Review Date: 10/19/2006
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, M.D., Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital.