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World Brain Health Day 2025 is a crucial reminder to pay attention to our cognitive well-being. While we often attribute fatigue and headaches to stress, subtle changes in our daily lives could indicate a more serious underlying issue, potentially including a brain tumour. It's important to remember that brain tumours aren't always dramatic; they often present with gradual, easily dismissed symptoms.

This year, let's focus on recognising these early warning signs and seeking timely medical advice. Ignoring them could delay diagnosis and impact treatment outcomes. Let’s delve into seven key symptoms that shouldn’t be brushed off as mere stress or tiredness.

1. Persistent and Unexplained Headaches

Everyone experiences headaches occasionally, but persistent, dull headaches that don't respond to usual remedies are a cause for concern. These headaches might worsen over time or be accompanied by other neurological symptoms. It’s crucial to differentiate between a typical tension headache and a headache that’s progressively impacting your daily life.

2. Subtle Changes in Vision

Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision can be early indicators of a problem within the brain. These visual disturbances often occur due to pressure on the optic nerve or other areas of the brain responsible for vision processing. Don't dismiss these changes; get them checked by an optometrist and potentially a neurologist.

3. Difficulty with Language (Aphasia)

Word-finding difficulties, trouble understanding conversations, or struggling to articulate thoughts clearly – these are all signs of aphasia, which can be caused by various factors, including brain tumours. Even minor slips of the tongue that become more frequent should be noted.

4. Weakness or Numbness

Weakness or numbness on one side of the body, particularly the face, arm, or leg, can be a sign of neurological issues. This could be due to a tumour pressing on the motor cortex, the area of the brain that controls movement.

5. Seizures

While seizures can have various causes, they can also be a symptom of a brain tumour. New-onset seizures, especially in adults, warrant immediate medical attention. The type of seizure can also provide clues to the location of the potential issue.

6. Changes in Personality or Behaviour

Brain tumours can affect personality and behaviour, leading to irritability, mood swings, or unusual emotional responses. These changes are often subtle but can be noticed by close friends and family.

7. Unexplained Drowsiness or Fatigue

While stress and lack of sleep can cause fatigue, persistent, unexplained drowsiness that interferes with daily activities should be investigated. This can be a sign of a tumour affecting the brain's regulatory functions.

What to Do? If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult your doctor. Early detection and diagnosis significantly improve treatment outcomes. World Brain Health Day is a great opportunity to prioritise your cognitive health and be proactive about seeking medical attention when needed. Don't wait – your brain health is your wealth!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.