The brain tumour symptom that is too commonly ignored

Too often we tell ourselves it’s probably nothing.

There are so many reasons for headaches and everyday pains that lead them to often be overlooked, ignored and simply treated with painkillers. But, according to chief of neurosurgery, Robert Martuza, headaches are a massive indicator of brain tumours. This is due to increased pressure in the head and results in a persistent dull pain. Unlike a regular headache, the head pain due to a brain tumour is slow, dull and will be unlike anything you’ve felt before. “This is usually a new headache that you’ve never had before, and it’s more of a dull ache,” Martuza explained to SELF. Furthermore, headaches associated with brain tumors are often more intense in the early morning or at night because your brain experiences an increase in pressure while you sleep. They also change or get worse if bend over, cough, sneeze, or poop. Martuza recommends seeking medical advice if you have a persistent headache. If a headache is accompanied by seizure, loss of control over one side of your body, or vision or hearing loss then get to your doctor as soon as possible. Brain Tumour Ireland also recommends seeking advice if your headaches are accompanied by behavioral and cognitive problems. The European Code Against Cancer, developed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the European Commission 2014, aims to inform people about actions they can take for themselves or their families to reduce their risk of cancer. Cancer specialists and scientists from across Europe compiled the code based on the latest scientific evidence on cancer prevention. It consists of twelve recommendations that most people can follow without any special skills or advice. The more recommendations people follow, the lower their risk of cancer will be. The 12 recommendations include:

• Do not smoke
• Avoid second-hand smoke
• Be a healthy weight
• Be physically active
• Have a healthy diet
• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid too much sun
• Avoid pollutants
• Avoid radon
• Get vaccinations
• Breastfeed and avoid HRT
• Get screened regularly

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