Getting diagnosed
Many people worry that a constant headache might mean they have a brain tumour. But it's unlikely that you have a brain tumour if headaches are your only symptom.
Find out more about the symptoms of brain and spinal cord tumours
It can be hard for GPs to decide who may have a brain tumour and who might have a more minor condition. For some symptoms, your doctor may ask you to wait to see if the symptoms get better or respond to treatment.
Your GP may want to talk to someone who knows you well. This is to find out whether they have noticed any changes in your personality behaviour or concentration. This could be your partner, friend or a close relative.
Your GP might arrange for you to have some tests first. This will help them decide if you need to see a specialist.
Read about what happens when you see your GP
There are guidelines for GPs to help them decide who needs an urgent suspected cancer referral. These vary slightly between the different UK nations. Your GP will use these guidelines as well as their own experience and judgement.
In some situations, your GP might recommend you go straight to Accident and Emergency (A&E). Or they may admit you to hospital through a local medical assessment unit (MAU). In this case, a specialist doctor would review you as an emergency.
Your GP will consider any other symptoms you have, so do mention these.
Read about symptoms of a brain tumour
Your GP might also take into account whether you have any risk factors that affect your chances of developing a brain tumour.
Go to the risks and causes of brain tumours
Sometimes you might feel that your GP is not concerned enough about your symptoms. If you think they should be more concerned, print this page and the symptoms page. Ask your GP to explain why they don’t think you need a referral.
Contact your GP again if your symptoms don't get better or you notice any new or unusual symptoms.
If your GP has referred you, ask them when you should get your appointment. Contact them again if you don’t get one. Or some hospitals have a referral service you could try contacting if you know which hospital you are going to. Explain that you are waiting for an urgent suspected cancer referral.
Go to more information about urgent referral, what to expect and questions to ask
Your hospital is working towards waiting time targets. For example, a target to find out whether you have cancer or not. And there are targets to start treatment if you are diagnosed with cancer. These are slightly different depending on where you live in the UK.
Last reviewed: 13 Aug 2026
Next review due: 13 Aug 2029
Common symptoms of brain tumours include headaches, feeling or being sick and seizures (fits).
See your GP if you notice a change that isn't normal for you. Or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of a brain tumour.
Tests for brain or spinal cord tumours include scans to look at your brain and a test of your nervous system (neurological examination). Your doctor might also arrange some other tests.
Treatment for a brain or spinal cord tumour depends on the type of tumour you have, where it is and your general health.
Primary brain tumours are cancers that start in the brain. Tumours can start in any part of the brain or related structures.
About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
Search our clinical trials database for all cancer trials and studies recruiting in the UK.
Connect with other people affected by cancer and share your experiences.
Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.
