Is it a brain tumor?

[jamesp22]

I have had left sided facial numbness on and off for the last 7 months. The first time I noticed it I rushed to the E.R. thinking I was possibly having a stroke. So after the E.R. evaluation the doctor said it was parasthesia. I have had dental problems and had a root that needed to be removed and I had that taken out  back in April trying to see if the tooth was the cause of the numbness. And at 1st it seemed to be. But the numbness is back with a weird left eye AWARENESS?? The eye doesnt hurt, the vision doesnt blur, but I am just aware of it for some reason. I have seen my PCP and I have had a CT scan done. I have tried the MRI machine but even with a valium I cannot complete the test because I am very claustrophobic.

I have not been having any headaches or any upset stomach or vomiting. My balance and memory are fine. Im not on any medication. I am 33 year old overweight male. I have had all bloodwork and diabetes test performed and come back normal. I just completed a heart echo and carotid artery test and came out normal as well.

I am worried that I may have a brain tumor. Is there a symptom or symptom(s) that identify a definite brain tumor? What would my symptoms indicate? Wouldnt the CT scan catch a tumor?

I have been suffering from anxiety thinking about this and want to know if having the MRI is the only sure fire way to determine if it is or isnt a tumor.

Cliffs:
Facial numbness
Eye awareness

Is an MRI only way to determine cause?

[rumpled]

Do let us know how everything works out!

[jamesp22]

Thanks guys. I have been referred to a neurologist from my PCP to see if I can figure it out.

[rumpled]

However, you have had a CT, and that is also used a great deal for tumors so unless it was tiny - your tumor was likely picked up.

There are nerve palsies that effect the face such as Bells Palsy and the like - but I would seek out a neurologist that treats nerve disorders and get EMGs and all to make sure that is not the issue as well.

Things that effect the nerves do not show up on any imaging.

[tiredbuthappy]

Because there are so many things that can cause the symptoms you describe, the best thing would be an MRI. I have never had a CT for my tumors. I also belong to a forum for my type of brain tumor (meningioma). Everyone on there gets regular MRIs, and many of the people have the same phobia you do. I think I have read that some hospitals will do MRIs with sedation. You may want to consider it. I have also heard of people doing open MRI while tracking brain tumors, although I think the resolution isn't as good.