Brain tumor question

Posted By  CCF MD GS on March 09, 1998 at 09:33:53:

In Reply to: Re: Brain tumor question posted by CCF Forum Administrator on March 09, 1998 at 09:12:28:

: : Hello
  : First of all thanks for a great forum.
  : Now for my question:
  : Since about two years I've been having almost daily headache which originates just behind my right eye (a bit above it ). The ache tends to get worse if I shake my head or run fast down stairs for example. I've also had problems with vision. Sometimes it feels like the ability to see things in 3D is altered and looking at things the distance is not really painful but gives me a kind of eye strain. I've also experienced problems with hearing and balance. Sounds seem to come from the "wrong" direction and I feel dizzy.
  : I had a MRI exam in march of '96 and that didn't show anything. My neurologist supposed that my problems could be either autonomic or even psychologic. He mentioned something like "hidden depression" or something like that. I've never heard of anything like that. My question is: Could my symptoms be related to a brain tumor? Or is it possible that the "depression" thing can be the cause of the kind of symptoms that I'm having?
  : Another non-medical question: How many doctors are involved in this forum? Give my best to all those helping people?
  : Thank you
  : Dan
  

[CCF MD GS]

_
  Dear Dan,
  In response to your non-medical question, any CCF Neurologist or Neurosurgeon
  can participate in the forum.  However, about 10 physicians participate regularly.
  Thank you for your positive comments.  The Forum staff really does an
  excellent job - without them it would not be possible!
  CCF Forum Administrator
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Dear Dan headaches are a very common complaint and concern regarding tumors often comes up. Tumors are not that common and generally produce other neurologic problems that would be present over a two year period. You have had a previous imaging study that was negative which is helpful. Although no test is 100% the fact that the brain scan was negative makes it unlikely that you have a tumor. You sound like you have chronic tension type headache with possibly migraine variant on occassion cause visual symptoms. It is hard to make a statement about depression being the cause of your headache, but in general depression itself does cause headache although persistent pain can cause depressive type symptoms. I would recommend regular follow-up neurologic exams with your neurologist. A number of medication are available and they can discuss these with you. Good luck.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatemtn options of your specific medical condition.