Pediatric Brain Tumor Symptoms

Common pediatric brain tumor symptoms include headaches, problems with balance or walking, and muscle jerking or twitching. Whether these symptoms occur will depend on the size of the tumor, its type, and location. Children with possible pediatric brain tumor symptoms should see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment since other conditions can cause these symptoms too.

 

Pediatric Brain Tumor Symptoms: An Overview

The pediatric brain tumor symptoms a child may experience will depend on the tumor size, type, and location. These symptoms can be caused when a tumor presses on a nerve or damages a certain area of the brain. Swelling of the brain or a buildup of fluid within the skull can also cause pediatric brain tumor symptoms.
 

Early Pediatric Brain Tumor Symptoms

Early pediatric brain tumor symptoms can be vague or dramatic, depending on the size, type, and location of the brain tumor. If pediatric brain tumor symptoms are vague, it is not uncommon for a child to have his or her condition diagnosed as migraines, school phobia, anorexia, or other common problems. However, eventually, all pediatric brain tumor symptoms will become worse. As the tumor grows, it will cause increased pressure on the brain, because the space inside the skull is limited.
 

Common Pediatric Brain Tumor Symptoms

Common pediatric brain tumor symptoms include:
 
  • Headaches (that are usually worse in the morning)
  • Problems with balancing or walking
  • Muscle jerking or twitching (seizures or convulsions)
  • Changes in mood, personality, or ability to concentrate
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
  • Changes in speech, vision, or hearing
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Problems with memory.
     
(Pediatric Brain Tumor Symptoms Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD