Brain tumours can present in several different ways, and most symptoms, such as worsening fatigue, are not specific to brain tumours, so they can take a while to diagnose.
It is important to note that while the above symptoms may suggest a brain tumour, they are also symptoms of other illnesses. Please always consult with your GP
It is normal to feel worried and anxious when not feeling well, especially when fearing a serious condition.
Anxiety can create a range of symptoms: intrusive thoughts, a racing mind, feeling overwhelmed, feelings of panic and of dread and hopelessness, fear and worry about the future and about family members and friends.
Physical symptoms of anxiety include nightmares, sweating, tiredness and fatigue, increased heart rate, shallow breathing, nausea or upset stomach, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
The concern can also cause feeling depressed or being low. This can result in withdrawing and isolating yourself, loss of enjoyment or interest in hobbies and leisure, feeling upset and or tearful and sometimes even thoughts of self-harm.
You may find there is a class near you and there is lots of information on the internet and apps you can download. A good resource with lots of free sections is Insight Timer. This has meditation classes of many types and lengths, as well as talks, music, sleep tips and much more.
PMR is a relaxation technique that involves tensing and relaxing specific muscles in turn. Usually, a person begins with the feet and works their way up the body, taking deep, slow breaths throughout the exercise. By focusing on tensing and relaxing muscles individually, a person becomes focused on the present moment.
Grounding techniques help control these symptoms by turning attention away from thoughts, memories, or worries, and refocusing on the present moment. You can find lots of types of grounding techniques online. This useful article on grounding techniques is a good starting point.
Many people find it helpful to talk about their worries to someone who is independent of their life. Being heard by another person can be a very powerful validation of us as valuable human beings.
Brain Tumour Support has a team of Support Professionals as well as specialist counsellors who can help. There are also directories of counsellors, and your GP may be able to refer you to an NHS counsellor or psychologist.
It can be helpful and relaxing to take your mind off things by engaging in a hobby you used to love or exploring new ones. People also report that taking up activities that have some meaning or purpose also makes them feel better in themselves, e.g. volunteering for a local charity or joining the community. Being creative can also be uplifting.
It has been proven that doing things in nature, including gardening, is very restorative of mind and body.
Feelings of well-being are fundamental to our overall health, helping us to deal with difficulties and achieve what we want out of life. You might like to try some of the things that are known to help with a sense of well-being:
Elena was diagnosed with a brain tumour at nineteen, just as she was about to start university. She shares how that moment changed her life, the long-term impact of her diagnosis and why ongoing support continues to matter.
Read Elena’s storyUnderstand more about brain tumours, types, symptoms and treatment as well as up-to-date statistics.
The signs and symptoms of brain tumours in adults can include headaches and seizures.
There are more than 130 different types of brain tumours. The most common type of brain tumours in adults is glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).
We not only support patients but also families, carers and loved ones who are dealing day to day with the impact of a brain tumour.
Although it can be difficult to think about the later stages of life, a brain tumour diagnosis can force you to consider your options.
Learn about medical terminology. We’ve put together a list of useful medical terms in a handy A-Z.
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