Ex-NBA player Jason Collins battles brain tumor: 5 warning symptoms that should not be ignored

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Former NBA player Jason Collins, now an ambassador for the league, is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor, as announced by his family through the NBA. Brain tumors, characterized by abnormal cell growth in or near the brain, can be benign or malignant, presenting varied symptoms depending on size and location.

Former NBA player Jason Collins, who now serves as an ambassador for the league, is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor. "NBA Ambassador and 13-year NBA veteran Jason Collins is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumor,” his family said in a statement released by the NBA on Thursday. “Jason and his family welcome your support and prayers and kindly ask for privacy as they dedicate their attention to Jason's health and well-being.”

Former NBA player Jason Collins undergoing treatment for brain tumor

Brooklyn Nets Jason Collins(AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

An estimated 1 million Americans are currently living with a primary brain tumor, according to the National Brain Tumor Society. While tumors can vary in severity, recognizing the symptoms early is crucial for treatment and recovery outcomes. Being aware of the symptoms could help catch the tumor early.

What is a brain tumor?

tumor

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain or near it, such as the nerves, the pituitary gland, the pineal gland, or the membranes that cover the surface of the brain.

These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). There are over 150 different types of brain tumors, based on the kind of cells that make up the tumor.

What are the warning symptoms of a brain tumor?

The signs and symptoms of a brain tumor differ depending on the tumor size and location. When the brain tumors are small, some may not experience any symptoms, or signs are so mild that they go unnoticed. The symptoms are also tied to how fast the tumor is growing and how much pressure it causes inside the skull.

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Early symptoms of a brain tumor

Some of the early and general signs and symptoms of a brain tumor include:

Headaches or pressure in the head that is worse in the morning: It can occur more often and seem more severe. People describe such headaches as tension headaches or migraines.
Nausea or vomiting: It is often accompanied by headaches.
Changes in mood or behavior. One may feel moody, withdrawn, or inefficient at work. Some also feel drowsy, confused, and unable to think.
Problems thinking clearly: One of the early signs includes having difficulty remembering things or focusing.
Trouble speaking or finding the right words.
Seizures: They could appear as numbness, tingling, uncontrollable arm and leg movements, difficulty speaking, strange smells or sensations, staring and unresponsive episodes, or convulsions.

Later symptoms of a brain tumor

When the tumor grows, the signs and symptoms will worsen. Some of the symptoms include:

Worsening headaches: The headaches may worsen. People may feel the headache worsening as they lie down, bend over, or bear down, such as when they have a bowel movement.
Vision changes: This sign is often mistaken for other, less serious illnesses. However, any changes in vision, such as double or blurry vision, need to be evaluated.
Hearing or smelling problems
Loss of balance or trouble walking
Weakness or numbness
Loss of coordination or control over movements
Change in the ability to feel heat, cold, pressure, a light touch or sharp objects

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition

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