Brain tumor is serious medical condition, characterized by growth of tumor cells, either in the central spinal canal, inside cranium or within the brain. A tumor in the brain can become life-threatening, if the its size increases to a certain extent. The large sized tumor may exert pressure to the surrounding brain parts, which are responsible for controlling vital functions of the body, such as respiration, heart function or blood circulation etc. In order to avoid medical complications, prompt brain tumor treatment is necessary immediately after diagnosis.
Brain Tumor Symptoms
Based on the exact location of tumor, various types of brain tumor are classified. Those originating within the brain itself are collectively called gliomas, while benign tumors located in the lining of the brain (called meninges) are medically referred to as meningiomas. Metastatic brain tumors, on the other hand, are originated in other areas of the body, which slowly spread to the brain. The, brain tumor symptoms in adults and children vary depending upon the tumor location, growth rate, extent of spreading and tumor size. Manifested symptoms of brain tumor include:
* Frequent headache or increased headache intensity
* Headache that worsens with bending, sneezing and coughing
* Vomiting with or without nausea (particularly in morning time)
* Behavioral changes, personality changes and frequent mood swings
* Seizures without having any apparent reason
* Vision disorders including eye floaters, flashes of lights and blurred vision
* Hearing problems including unexplained tinnitus and temporary hearing loss
* Speech difficulties with incidences of slurred and slow speech
* Loss of body coordination, balance and sensation
* Physical signs including one sided weakness and immobility
Brain Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment
The treatment for brain tumor actually starts with the diagnostic processes. Patients manifesting suspected brain tumor symptoms are examined thoroughly for confirmation. In order to locate the brain tumor and identify its size, a complete neurological exam is performed in conjunction with imaging tests of the brain. Based on the diagnostic results, the doctor outweighs the various treatment options, so as to come up with the best alternative. The three main approaches followed for brain tumor treatment are:
Brain Tumor Surgery
Surgical procedure is the most relevant treatment for majority of the patients with brain tumors. During the surgery, a team of experienced neurosurgeons perform craniotomy, thereby creating an opening in the skull. Through this cranial opening, brain tumor is excised. If possible, the entire tumor is removed. However, partial removal is considered, in case tumor is present adjacent to vital brain tissues. Following brain tumor surgery, further treatments with the help of radiation and drugs are recommended for better recuperation. Read more…