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It isn’t news that you want to hear. But if you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, take time to gather all the information that you can. Here are some basics you need to know.

How Is a Brain Tumor Diagnosed?

If you complain of certain symptoms, such as frequent headaches, nausea, imbalance, or seizures, a doctor may suspect a brain tumor and subsequently run a variety of tests. These tests can include an MRI, a CT scan, an angiogram, or a spinal tap. If the doctor discovers a tumor and recommends treatment, make sure you get a second opinion.

This can be a very stressful and confusing time, so for every doctor visit, make a list of questions before you go. Bring a friend or family member with you, since you may not remember everything the doctor says, and try to take notes, too.

What Kinds of Tumors Are There?

In general, tumors can be benign or malignant. Benign means there is no cancer present. The tumor can be removed and seldom grows back. Malignant means there is cancer, and the tumor can be life-threatening. Primary tumors are those that originate within the brain, while secondary tumors have spread to the brain from other parts of the body.

How Are Brain Tumors Treated?

Once you have been diagnosed, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the various options for treatment. Treatment will vary based on your age, your general health, and the type, location, and size of the tumor. Usually, you will be recommended for surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or some combination.

• Surgery: Surgery is the most common type of treatment for a brain tumor. Before the procedure, your head will be shaved. Then, while you are under general anesthesia, a surgeon will make an incision in your scalp and remove one section of bone. Then the surgeon will operate to remove the tumor. Finally, he will replace the piece of bone and close the incision. After the surgery, you will probably spend several days in the hospital.
• Radiation: During radiation therapy, a machine pinpoints the affected area in your brain and sends high-energy rays to destroy the cancer cells. Radiation can be used alone or after surgery to kill any cancer cells that were left behind. Each treatment lasts just a few minutes and usually takes place in a clinic setting.
• Chemotherapy: This treatment involves using drugs, delivered by IV or in pill form, to kill cancer cells. Most often, chemotherapy is given in cycles, allowing you to recover after each treatment. Chemotherapy takes place in a hospital or doctor’s office as an outpatient procedure, and it can be used alone or in conjunction with surgery or radiation.

What Are the Side Effects?

Depending on what treatment you have, the side effects will vary. After surgery, you may have headaches. If the surgery damages the normal brain tissue, you could experience changes in personality, feel imbalanced, or have trouble talking. Usually, these symptoms will get better over time.

After having radiation or chemotherapy, you will probably lose your hair, but it should grow back after several months. You may also feel week and nauseated. In some cases, patients will have edema (swelling) of the brain and experience seizures. If you have either of those reactions, contact your doctor right away.

What Is the Prognosis?

How you recover from a brain tumor depends on many factors: the type of tumor, the type of treatment, and your general health. Undergoing physical therapy can help you improve your mobility and balance after treatment. And speech therapists can also help you with communication issues.

After treatment, it is important to keep in touch with your doctor and agree to a schedule of follow-up appointments. Your doctor will probably use x-rays and other tests to monitor the affected areas and check for any recurrence of cancer.

Be sure to accept all the support that is offered to you. Social workers can help coordinate care and explore the emotions you’re having. Joining a recovery group, where you meet other patients and share your stories, will help you know you’re not alone.

To learn more about brain tumors and how they can be treated, contact Aventura Hospital. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-888-256-7692. We’re here to answer all your questions.

SOURCES
National Brain Tumor Society
MedicineNet.com