Overview
Brain Tumors are when cells grow abnormally, creating a mass or neoplasm (growth of tissue that is abnormal). Primary brain tumors originate in the brain. Metastatic brain tumors have an origin outside of the brain, and then metastasize to the brain. There are benign tumors and malignant tumors. Malignant tumors are cancerous which include olfactory neuroblastoma, chondrosarcoma and medulloblastoma. Some benign tumors include meningioma, vestibular schwannoma & pituitary adenoma.
Who it Affects
- Typical onset of symptoms: All ages & backgrounds are affected by brain tumors, but are most likely to develop in those above the age of 50
- Gender: Some types of brain tumors are more prevalent in men, such as glioblastomas, while others are more prevalent in women, such as meningiomas
- Prevalence: About 6 per 100,000 new cases are found each year
Symptoms
The symptoms for Brain Tumors ultimately depend on its size, location, and speed of growth. Below are examples of some general symptoms that can be found.
● Headaches
● Seizures
● Difficulty speaking
● Personality changes
● Weakness and/or paralysis
● Loss of balance and dizziness
● Loss of hearing
● Vision changes
● Confusion
● Memory loss
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or if you have been diagnosed with a specific type of Brain Tumors, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance.
Causes
The exact cause for Brain Tumors are unknown. There are certain factors that can increase your chance of developing Brain Tumors. Some of the causes that increase the chance of developing brain tumors could be due to radiation, genetics and cancer that metastasized. However, individuals can have previous conditions that may increase the chance of developing a brain tumor. Some of these conditions include: Neurofibromatosis, Cowden Syndrome & Von Hippel-Lindau disease.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with Brain Tumors, there are several tests used to check for any signs of tumors. Below is a list of all the tests that can be completed to determine if you have Brain Tumors.
● MRI scan
● CT Scan
● PET-CT scan
● Biopsy
Treatment
New advancements in research have helped advance treatments for Brain Tumors. Treating the tumors relies on its size, type, and location in the brain, as well as your overall health at the time of diagnosis. Below are the various treatments options you can expect:
● Surgery: The goal is to remove all of the tumor cells that are safely removed without damaging any important tissues. If the brain tumor is connected to an important surrounding tissue, some of the tumor might be left to not risk the safety of the patient.
● Radiation Therapy: Using energy beams to kill tumor cells. It can be used to target specific areas where the tumor is located, or the entire brain if there are multiple tumors present.
● Radiosurgery: Intense form of radiation treatment where multiple angles of radiation beams are aimed at the tumor to kill the tumor cells. Multiple different types of radiosurgeries. Can usually be done in one or few treatments.
● Chemotherapy: Using strong medicine to kill tumor cells that can be taken in either pills or injections.
● Targeted drug therapy: Attaching specific chemicals present in tumor cells with medicine. This can cause tumor cells to die.
Living With Alzheimer’s
Living with a brain tumor can include cognitive and physical challenges that affect the person’s daily activities. When undergoing treatment for your tumors, you may need to adjust your daily activities in order to cope with the side effects of treatments or medications you may be taking. Ensuring you continue to eat a healthy balanced diet can help aid as you struggle with side effects and ensure a better recovery. Sadly, some Brain Tumors can’t be cured. In these cases, it’s important to have conversations with your medical team and loved ones as you discuss and prepare for the end of life. It is important to have a caregiver by your side to provide you support when diagnosed with a brain tumor.
Your Role as a Caregiver
Caring for someone with a Brain Tumor is different for every person, as the type of Brain Tumor and its effects are different in each person. Some may experience more difficulty and need more assistance as they work through their diagnosis, while others may experience less hardships. Overall, you can help with medications and keeping up with daily tasks, providing emotional support, and assisting in advocating for their needs during their journey. While in this difficult position, as a caregiver you will need to find a way to balance your work, family, and your own needs as you care for your loved one.