Balance/co-ordination/walking problems

Facts

Brain tumours can initially cause subtle changes in motor skills such as a change in hand or foot preference or loss of learned skills, e.g. ability at computer games, texting, handwriting or using zips or buttons.
In young people and teenagers, the main movement problems associated with brain tumours are poor balance and co-ordination.
Balance problems may cause teenagers to feel unsteady when walking (needing to hold on to a handrail or wall) or stumbling or falling over.
Co-ordination problems may lead to a feeling of movements not being 'together', and difficulty in doing activities requiring carefully coordinated movements, such as art and craft, sports, computer games, playing a musical instrument.

If you're a teenager and you're concerned about your symptoms, it's best to get them checked out by your GP.

If you're a parent or carer of a teenager and you're concerned about their symptoms, explain that you think they should go to the GP and offer to make them an appointment. Bear in mind that, depending on their age and circumstances, they may choose to go to the GP on their own, although many appreciate having a parent or carer with them whatever their age.