A skull base tumor sits deep beneath the brain, close to nerves and blood vessels that control everyday functions. Because space is tight, even a small bump can send out quiet but steady warnings.

The first red flag is a one-sided headache that feels like pressure behind the ear or eye. It hangs around for weeks and does not care about painkillers.

Hearing then fades on the same side. Voices sound underwater, you raise phone volume, yet the ear still feels plugged.

Facial twinges come next: quick electric zaps across the cheek or jaw that feel like a dental problem until the dentist finds nothing.

Balance slips. You veer when walking, hug hallway walls, or feel a brief spin when rolling over in bed.

Double vision pops in and out. Covering one eye clears the blur, and the second image disappears.

Some people notice a salty drip from one nostril in the morning—the tumor has opened a tiny leak of brain fluid.

If the mass grows larger, swallowing can slow and the voice grows tired, signaling pressure on lower brain cables.