Misdiagnosed Panic Attacks Lead to Discovery of Incurable Brain Tumor in Newcastle Woman

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August 23, 2024

woman’s Car Crash Linked to Previously Undiagnosed brain Tumor

Newcastle, United Kingdom – A 37-Year-Old Woman from Cumbria experienced a harrowing three-year period of unexplained health issues, including a car accident, before finally receiving a diagnosis of an aggressive and incurable brain tumor. Kim wilson’s story underscores the critical need for vigilance regarding neurological symptoms and the potential for misdiagnosis.

Years of Misattributed Symptoms

Kim Wilson’s ordeal began approximately three years prior to her diagnosis, with symptoms she initially attributed to anxiety and stress. These included feelings of panic,confusion,and episodes of rambling speech. A General Practitioner prescribed medication for anxiety,but her condition persisted and worsened.

In August 2022, Ms. wilson collapsed during a work call and suffered two tonic-clonic seizures, leading to her hospitalization at West Cumberland Hospital.subsequent transfer to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) and an MRI scan revealed the presence of a brain tumor.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Following an eight-hour surgical procedure at the RVI, as much of the tumor as possible was removed. Pathological examination confirmed a grade 3 astrocytoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. This diagnosis explained the years of previously unexplained symptoms, which Ms. Wilson had mistakenly assumed were linked to psychological stress.

“I became anxious about simple things like leaving the house or running errands,” Ms. Wilson stated. “I genuinely believed it was just anxiety at the time.” She recounted an incident where she was found disoriented while driving and another during a walk in a forest, both now understood to be seizure-related events.

A Positive Outlook Amidst Adversity

Despite the challenging diagnosis, Ms. Wilson chose to approach her treatment with optimism and determination. She underwent radiotherapy and twelve rounds of chemotherapy, completing her treatment in October 2023 and now receives six-monthly scans to monitor her condition.

To raise awareness and funds for Brain Tumour Research, Ms. Wilson, alongside her stepmother, initiated a fundraising campaign centered around completing 100 squats daily throughout August. The campaign has garnered support from over 100 participants nationwide, including 92-year-old Sadie Nuttall and seven-year-old twins Alfie and Freddie Slade.

Did You Know? According to the World Health Association,neurological conditions now affect over 3 billion people globally,making them the leading cause of illness and disability worldwide. (WHO)

Statistic	Data
People Affected by Neurological Conditions (2021)	Over 3 billion
Global Ranking of Neurological Conditions	Leading cause of illness and disability
Kim Wilson’s Age at Diagnosis	37

“I think Brain Tumour research is a charity that’s genuinely going to make a difference,” Ms. Wilson explained. “I want people to feel they can live with cancer, not just survive it.”

ashley McWilliams, Community Development Manager at brain Tumour Research, praised Ms. Wilson’s resilience and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing subtle neurological symptoms.

Understanding Brain Tumors

Brain tumors occur when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably within the brain. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the tumor’s size, location, and growth rate. Common symptoms include headaches, seizures, vision changes, and cognitive difficulties. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, which may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.

Pro Tip: If you experience persistent and unexplained neurological symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brain Tumors

• What are the early signs of a brain tumor? Early signs can include persistent headaches, unexplained seizures, vision changes, and difficulty with balance or coordination.
• Is a brain tumor always cancerous? No, not all brain tumors are cancerous. Some are benign (non-cancerous) and slow-growing.
• How is a brain tumor diagnosed? Diagnosis typically involves a neurological exam, imaging scans (MRI or CT scan), and sometimes a biopsy.
• What is the treatment for a brain tumor? Treatment options vary depending on the type and location of the tumor, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
• Can brain tumors be prevented? While there is no known way to prevent moast brain tumors, avoiding exposure to certain chemicals and radiation may reduce risk.
• What is the survival rate for brain tumors? Survival rates vary greatly depending on the type and grade of the tumor, as well as the patient’s age and overall health.
• What resources are available for brain tumor patients and their families? Organizations like brain Tumour Research offer support, information, and funding for research.

What are your thoughts on Kim’s astonishing courage and dedication to raising awareness? Have you or anyone you know been affected by brain tumors?

Share this story with your network and let’s amplify the conversation about brain tumor awareness! Leave a comment below with your support and share your experiences.