Ependymoma is a tumor that develops in the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms vary depending on the tumor's location. Here are common symptoms based on the tumor's location:
Intracranial (Brain) Ependymoma
- Headaches: Often worse in the morning or after lying down.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Frequently accompanies headaches.
- Balance and Coordination Problems: Difficulty walking or clumsiness.
- Seizures: May occur if the tumor affects the brain's electrical activity.
- Vision Problems: Blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss.
- Changes in Behavior or Personality: Increased irritability, confusion, or lethargy.
- Difficulty with Memory and Cognitive Functions: Trouble with thinking, memory, or concentrating.
Spinal Ependymoma
- Back Pain: Persistent pain that may radiate to other parts of the body.
- Weakness or Numbness: In the arms or legs, depending on the tumor's location in the spine.
- Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control: This can occur if the tumor affects certain nerves.
- Difficulty Walking: Issues with balance and coordination.
General Symptoms
- Fatigue: General tiredness and lack of energy.
- Weight Loss: Unintentional loss of weight.
- Poor Appetite: Decreased desire to eat.
If you persistently experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult your healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, order diagnostic tests or imaging studies to determine the cause of these symptoms. At GW Cancer Center, you’ll be seen by doctors and surgeons who rank among the top neuro-oncology experts in the Washington, DC, region. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best possible outcomes.
