Nico Archdale, a 32-year-old man living in London, started early morning workouts to improve his fitness. His head felt heavy immediately after exercising, but the pain was not severe. "I thought it was temporary fatigue and kept exercising," he said.
Three weeks later, however, even tying his shoelaces triggered excruciating headaches, eventually prompting him to visit a hospital.
According to British media outlet The Mirror on Oct. 10 (local time), detailed examinations revealed a tumor lodged in Archdale's brain. Medical staff found the tumor was the size of a table tennis ball.
Archdale underwent surgery earlier this year and is currently receiving chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Until just months ago, he had been preparing to compete in a fitness competition. Now, barely able to walk on his own, he is focused on rehabilitation.
More than half of brain tumor patients (50-70%) experience headaches. In particular, headaches that worsen in the morning are a standard early sign of brain tumors. The pain occurs as cerebrospinal fluid pools while lying down overnight, raising intracranial pressure, which then decreases upon becoming active.
A research team at the Division of Hematology-Oncology at Tufts Medical Center in the U.S. reported that approximately 32% of patients complain of headaches that worsen in the morning. The problem, as seen in Archdale's case, is that the pain is mild in the early stages and easily mistaken for exercise fatigue.
Beyond headaches, brain tumors cause various neurological symptoms. Vomiting, dizziness and paralysis on one side of the body can appear in the early stages. Depending on the tumor's location, symptoms may also include declining vision, speech impairment, loss of balance, personality changes and memory loss. Stimulation of brain cells can even lead to epileptic seizures, making early diagnosis and treatment critically important.
The cause of brain tumors remains unidentified. Genetic and environmental factors are known to act in combination, with radiation exposure, certain chemicals and viral infections cited as risk factors. Since prevention methods are not clear-cut, symptoms themselves serve as the most important warning signs. Recurring daily headaches or neurological abnormalities should not be dismissed as mere fatigue or stress. If symptoms persist, one should immediately visit a medical institution for detailed examination.
"He looked so healthy—how could this happen suddenly?" What is the condition that puts even seemingly healthy people at risk?
