Meningioma – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Meningiomas develop from the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. These slow-growing tumors aren’t actually brain tumors, though they may press against brain tissue, nerves, or blood vessels nearby. Meningiomas represent the most common type of head tumors.
These growths typically develop very gradually. Many people have meningiomas for years without experiencing any symptoms. However, depending on their location and size, some meningiomas can eventually cause serious health problems by affecting nearby structures.
Women develop meningiomas more frequently than men. While these tumors are most commonly diagnosed in older adults, they can affect people of any age.
Most meningiomas have a slow-growing nature, so immediate treatment isn’t always necessary. Many healthcare providers recommend a “watch and wait” approach, monitoring the tumor over time through regular imaging rather than intervening right away.
Signs and Symptoms
Meningioma symptoms often start slowly and may be hard to notice at first. The symptoms vary based on where the tumor is in the brain. In rare cases, a meningioma can occur in the spine.
Common symptoms include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Morning headaches that feel worse
- Loss of hearing or ringing sounds in ears
- Problems with memory
- Reduced sense of smell
- Seizure activity
- Arm or leg weakness
- Difficulty speaking
When to Get Medical Help
Most meningioma symptoms develop gradually over time. However, some situations require immediate medical attention.
Get emergency help right away if you have:
- Sudden seizures
- Quick changes in your vision or memory
Schedule a doctor visit if you experience:
- Ongoing symptoms that concern you
- Headaches that worsen with time
Many meningiomas don’t cause noticeable symptoms. Doctors often find these tumors accidentally during brain scans done for other health reasons.
Causes
The exact cause of meningiomas remains unknown. These tumors form when cells in the meninges undergo changes that trigger uncontrolled multiplication.
Childhood radiation exposure is currently the only confirmed environmental risk factor for developing meningiomas. Despite widespread concerns, scientific research has not established a connection between cellphone use and meningioma formation.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase the chance of developing a meningioma:
- Radiation Exposure: People who have had radiation therapy to their head might face a higher risk of developing this condition.
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Hormonal Factors: Women develop meningiomas more frequently than men, suggesting female hormones might play a role. Research indicates possible connections between:
- Birth control pills
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Breast cancer
- Genetic Conditions: People with neurofibromatosis 2, a rare inherited nervous system disorder, have a higher chance of developing meningiomas and other brain tumors.
- Weight Issues: Studies show that people with higher body mass index (BMI) may develop meningiomas more often. However, scientists don’t fully understand how obesity connects to these tumors.
Possible Complications
Meningiomas and their treatments may lead to several long-term complications. Since most treatment plans involve surgery, radiation therapy, or both, patients might experience various issues afterward.
Common complications include:
- Cognitive challenges such as trouble focusing and memory problems.
- Behavioral changes, including personality shifts.
- Neurological issues such as seizures and weakness.
- Sensory alterations affecting sight, hearing, taste, or touch.
- Communication difficulties, especially with language processing.
These complications vary in severity depending on tumor location, size, and treatment approach. Each patient’s experience is unique.
Healthcare providers can help manage many of these complications. They often work with a team of specialists to create comprehensive care plans for patients experiencing these issues.
For example, cognitive rehabilitation may help with memory and focus problems. Anti-seizure medications can control seizures effectively. Physical therapy might improve weakness, while speech therapy addresses language difficulties.
