If you develop any of the symptoms of a benign brain tumour, such as a persistent and severe headache, see your GP.

Your GP will examine you and refer you to a specialist if necessary.

They will examine the back of your eye and look for changes to the optic disc (the inside of the back of the eye) caused by increased pressure inside the skull. Raised pressure in the skull may be a sign of a tumour.

If a growth is suspected, you will be referred to a neurologist (brain and nerve specialist).

Referral to a specialist

The specialist will ask you about your medical history and symptoms. They will examine your nervous system, which may include tests of your:

• reflexes, such as your swallow reflex and knee-jerk reflex
• facial muscles (testing whether you can smile or grimace, for example)
• hearing and vision
• limb strength
• balance and co-ordination
• skin sensitivity to pinpricks, heat and cold
• mental agility (simple questions or arithmetic)

A brain tumour is diagnosed based on your symptoms, examinations and the results of certain tests (see below).

Tests

The most common tests used to help diagnose a brain tumour include:

• computerised tomography (CT) scan – this produces a detailed picture of your brain using a series of X-rays
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan – this produces a detailed picture of your brain using a strong magnetic field and radio waves  
• electroencephalogram (EEG) – electrodes record your brain activity

If a tumour is suspected, a biopsy (surgical removal of a small piece of tissue) may be taken to establish the type of tumour and the most effective treatment.

Under anaesthetic, a small hole (burr hole) is made in the skull and a very fine needle is used to obtain a sample of tumour tissue. You will probably need to stay in hospital for a few days.