Brain tumors begin as small, abnormal cell growths, multiplying gradually within the confined space of your skull. These growths often develop without any discernable signs: no pain, no discomfort, no warning signals that something has gone awry inside your brain. However, as the tumors begin to expand, they slowly disrupt normal brain function. By recognizing these early warning signs, you can seek crucial medical care before the tumor progresses to more dangerous stages. In some cases, brain tumors may be caused or worsened by medications such as Depo-Provera.
The Most Common Warning Signs of a Brain Tumor
Brain tumors can manifest in various ways depending on their location, size, and growth rate. Initially, symptoms might be subtle or easily dismissed. However, as tumors expand, they exert pressure on surrounding brain tissue and disrupt neural pathways—which can lead to increasingly noticeable symptoms.
Key warning signs to watch for include:
- Persistent headaches that worsen over time
- Unexplained seizures or convulsions
- Progressive difficulty thinking clearly or finding words
- Noticeable personality or behavioral changes
- Weakness or numbness focused on one side of your body
- Problems with balance or persistent dizziness
- Changes in your vision, hearing, or smell
- Increasing memory problems
- Confusion with routine tasks or disorientation
- Unexplained nausea or vomiting
- Unusual fatigue or muscle weakness
How Tumors Affect Different Parts of the Brain
Different regions of your brain control specific functions. As a result, the location of your brain tumor will often affect which symptoms you experience. For example, the frontal lobe controls higher executive functions such as emotional regulation, planning, reasoning, problem-solving, and impulse control. As a result, tumors in this area can lead to personality changes, impulse control issues, and speech problems.
Parietal lobe tumors typically affect sensation, spatial awareness, and language processing. If a tumor develops in your temporal lobe, you might experience hearing difficulties, memory problems, or seizures. Occipital lobe tumors primarily impact vision.
What to Do If You Suspect You Have a Brain Tumor
If you have developed symptoms and suspect that you may have a brain tumor, seek medical attention immediately. Visit your primary care physician for an evaluation and referral to a neurologist. Follow all medical recommendations for diagnostic tests, which may include MRIs, CT scans, or other imaging procedures.
Once you are diagnosed, carefully follow your treatment plan and continue to see your healthcare team. If you believe that your brain tumor may be linked to medication use—such as Depo-Provera, an injectable form of birth control—contact a defective drug attorney right away. Your lawyer can assess your medication history and determine whether you qualify for legal action.
Your Legal Options for Brain Tumors Caused by Depo-Provera
Many factors can cause brain tumors to develop, including the medications that you take. Scientific evidence has linked Depo-Provera to an increased risk of meningioma, a type of brain tumor that forms on membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. If you or someone you love developed meningioma after using this contraceptive injection, you may have grounds for a lawsuit against Pfizer, Depo-Provera’s manufacturer.
When Depo-Provera causes meningioma, you deserve answers and accountability. Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC is dedicated to helping patients hold drug manufacturers responsible for their harmful products and recover fair compensation for their medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more. Take the first step toward justice—contact us at (800) 220-0984 for a free, no-obligation consultation with our Depo-Provera lawsuit attorneys.