Childhood brain tumors
Early signs and symptoms of childhood brain tumors: Brain tumors can occur in a person at any age which includes young children. Early diagnosis is difficult for the children as they cannot tell they are suffering from the problem at their young age.
On the other hand, if the problem is diagnosed at an early age, it helps to treat it on time and the outcomes are better. It is the reason, it is essential to be aware of all the problems.
India has the second-largest pediatric population in the world. The brain tumor is the second most common tumor in children after blood-related cancer. It is possible, brain cancer occurs at the age of one and it goes through all of childhood. In children, certain brain tumors are more common. The commonly affected one is the small brain. The best part is that cancer treatment has advanced in India. Also, the cancer treatment cost in India as compared to other countries.
Early signs and symptoms of a brain tumor in a child
- In the early stage, the signs are so subtle that it won’t even cross your mind to get the diagnosis. The doctor wants to know the detailed history and observe the patient’s condition so that they give the best treatment course.
- In the starting stage, there can be abnormal growth of the head, especially it can be asymmetrical growth. Some of the early signs of the brain tumor include:
- Failure to thrive
- Not tolerating the feed
- Deviation of eyes
- Irritability
- Excessive crying
Keep in mind, if your child has uncontrollable fits or seizures then they must be taken to the medical professional right away for diagnosis of the brain tumor.
- Children are energetic and playful. If you feel your child is becoming less playful, dull, or frequently falling while running or playing and keep their head tilted to avoid double vision can be seen in children with older age groups. Make sure to seek medical help on time.
The decrease in performance or change in behavior is another important aspect that needs to be given consideration. In this situation, mothers and teachers are the ones who can identify the issue on time as they are with them most of the time.
- If you feel the child has a headache then it should not be ignored. Adults can ignore it for many reasons. But if your child has a severe headache then it needs medical intervention on time. Some of the symptoms which occur at a later stage:
- Visual symptoms
- Vomiting
- Neurological deficits
Many parents think that the child is making excuses to go to school in the morning. But it is important to evaluate their safety on time before making any conclusions.
Cancer awareness is important
Child cancer awareness month in September. It is important to create awareness among the individuals about cancer and make them understand how important it is to get the diagnosis on time.
