Spine tumors can be complex and challenging to diagnose accurately. However, it is important for those dealing with this condition to understand the signs and symptoms of a spine tumor so that they can seek appropriate treatment as quickly as possible.
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As a neuro-surgeon specializing in spine disorders, I often see my patients struggling with diagnosing a particular spinal disorder. In this blog post, I will discuss some of the main symptoms patients should look out for if they suspect they may have a spine tumor.
First, let's understand what is Spinal Tumor
A Spinal Tumor is an abnormal growth of cells, usually found within the spinal cord or in its surrounding tissues. Depending on the location and aggressiveness of the tumor, the symptoms can vary from mild to severe.
Main Symptoms Of Spinal Tumors
One of the most common symptoms of a spine tumor is pain in the back, neck or legs. This type of pain may be constant or intermittent and can range from mild to debilitating. In addition to this type of pain, patients may also experience numbness, weakness or tingling sensations in their arms and legs due to compression on nerves within the spine caused by a tumor.
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Another symptom that might be associated with a spine tumor is changes in posture or balance due to enlargement of the tumor, or nerve compression. As the tumor continues to grow, patients may experience difficulty with walking and standing up straight due to pressure on the spine.
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Other symptoms that might be associated with a spinal tumor can include abnormal sensations like burning, shooting pain or itching. Depending on where the tumor is located in the spine, patients may also experience bladder or bowel problems due to nerve compression of the respective organs.
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There are various types of spine tumors which will present different symptoms upon diagnosis. It is therefore important for individuals who suspect they have a spine tumor to seek medical advice as soon as possible so that appropriate treatment can be started at the earliest opportunity. With early diagnosis and treatment, it is often possible to reduce or even prevent further damage to the spine.
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Why is spinal tumor pain worse at night?
Spinal tumor pain is often worse at night due to the fact that when lying down the pressure on the spine increases, causing more pain. Other factors such as stress, fatigue and lack of physical activity during the day can also contribute to increased intensity of spinal tumor pain at night.
How to know if you have a spinal tumor?
If you are experiencing persistent or worsening back pain, neck pain, leg pain, changes in posture and balance or bladder/bowel incontinence it is important to consult a specialist as soon as possible. A physical examination and imaging tests such as an X-Ray or MRI scan may be required to accurately diagnose the condition.
Conclusion
Spinal tumors can be very difficult to diagnose without medical intervention. It is therefore important for individuals who have any of the above mentioned symptoms to seek medical advice from a specialist immediately so that appropriate treatment plans can be established at the earliest opportunity.
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Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce further damage to the spine due to tumor growth. If you suspect that you may have a spinal tumour, please do not hesitate to seek medical advice. With proper care and attention, it is often possible to manage and reduce the symptoms associated with a spinal
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About Author
Dr. Eshan Nerkar
Neurologist And Neurosuegeon
Dr. Eshan Nerkar, Consultant Brain & Spine Surgeon in Nashik specializes in Spine Surgery. He practices at AXON Brain & Spine Clinic. He is one of the best neurosurgeons in Nashik with more than 10 years of experience. He has performed more than 1000 surgeries related to brain and spinal surgery procedures.