The symptoms of a meningioma can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches: These are often worse in the morning and can be severe and persistent.
- Seizures: New onset of seizures or changes in existing seizure patterns.
- Vision Problems: Blurred or double vision, partial vision loss, or difficulty with vision.
- Hearing Loss: Particularly if the tumor is near the nerves that control hearing.
- Memory Loss: Issues with memory or changes in mental status.
- Motor Deficits: Weakness or numbness in the limbs, difficulty with coordination or walking.
- Speech Difficulties: Trouble speaking or understanding speech.
- Personality Changes: Alterations in personality or behavior, such as increased aggression or depression.
- Nausea and Vomiting: These can occur due to increased intracranial pressure.
- Swelling of the Optic Nerve (Papilledema): This can be observed during an eye exam and may be a sign of increased pressure within the skull.
Meningiomas are often slow-growing, and symptoms can develop gradually over time. 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.
