Cysts, called cysticerci, can develop in the muscles, the eyes, the brain, and/or the spinal cord. Symptoms caused by the cysts depend on the location, size, number, and stage of the cysts.
Cysts in the brain or spinal cord:
Cause the most serious form of the disease, called neurocysticercosis
May cause no symptoms
May cause seizures and/or headaches (these are more common)
May also cause confusion, difficulty with balance, brain swelling, and excess fluid around the brain (these are less common)
May cause stroke or death
Cysts in the muscles:
Generally do not cause symptoms
May cause lumps under the skin, which can sometimes become tender