There is currently no recommended screening exam for neurological (CNS) cancer. Most neurological (CNS) tumors are found when a person sees their healthcare provider because they have symptoms.
Neurological (CNS) Cancer Symptoms
Symptoms of neurological (CNS) cancer vary based on:
- The size of the tumor
- Where it grows on the spinal cord or in the brain
- The affected area of the brain
Brain tumor symptoms include:
- Seizures
- Changes in personality, behavior, ability to focus or mood
- Speech problems
- Vision problems
- Hearing problems
- Loss of balance
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of appetite
- Morning headaches
- Headaches that improves after vomiting
- Frequent nausea or vomiting
- Weakness
- Unusual sleepiness
- A change in activity level
Spinal cord tumor symptoms include:
- Back pain
- Difficulty walking
- Pain that spreads from the back toward the arms or legs
- Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
- Trouble urinating
- Changes in bowel habits
Check with your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms. They can also be signs of other health issues.