Brain tumours are groups of abnormal cells in the brain that form tumors. These tumours can affect the normal functioning of the brain and cause a variety of symptoms. The size, location, and type of brain tumor determine their severity and treatment approach.
There are mainly two types of brain tumors:
Primary brain tumors: These tumors arise directly from brain cells. Their size and location can vary. Primary brain tumors include:
Glioblastoma: An extremely aggressive type of tumor that grows rapidly.
Meningioma: Originates in the covering of the brain and is usually slow-growing.
Astrocytoma: Arises from nerve cells in the brain and can occur in different grades.
Secondary brain tumors: These tumors spread to the brain from other body parts. Also called metastatic tumors. These tumors usually occur in people who have cancer in other parts of the body.
Brain tumors symptoms can vary depending on the tumor’s size, type, and location in the brain. Common symptoms include:
Headache: which may be more intense and persistent than a normal headache.
Nausea and vomiting: especially in the morning.
Vision or hearing problems: blurred vision or hearing loss.
Cognitive changes: changes in mental status, such as memory loss or confusion.
Muscle weakness: weakness or numbness in one part of the body.
Coordination problems: difficulty walking or coordinating arm-leg movements.
The following tests are done to diagnose brain tumors:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): It provides detailed images of the brain and shows the location and size of the tumor.
Computer tomography (CT) scan: It provides cross-sectional images of the brain and assesses the size and location of the tumor.
PET scan: To check for the spread of the tumor to other parts of the body.
Brain biopsy: A small amount of cells are removed to analyse the tumour cells.
Treatment of brain tumours depends on many factors, such as the type, size, location of the tumour, and the overall condition of the patient. Treatment options include:
Surgery: Surgery is the main option if the tumour is located in a resectable location. The aim is to remove the tumour from the brain.
Radiotherapy: This treatment uses high-energy radiation to destroy tumour cells. It may be used after surgery or as an alternative to surgery.
Chemotherapy: This attempts to kill tumour cells through drugs. It is particularly useful for tumours that cannot be completely removed with surgery or radiotherapy.
Targeted therapy: This uses special drugs that target specific features of the tumour.
After treatment for a brain tumours, the patient needs regular monitoring and re-review. After the treatment, the patient should take care of the following things:
Proper diet and nutrition: A balanced diet is helpful in maintaining health.
Regular exercise: Light exercise can be beneficial for mental and physical health.
Maintain morale: Taking care of mental health and being a part of support groups can be helpful.
Brain tumours is a serious medical condition, but it is possible to improve the condition with timely diagnosis and proper treatment. If you notice symptoms of brain tumor, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Your doctor will help you determine the correct diagnosis and treatment plan, and help manage your health condition.
