Brain cancer symptoms vary depending on which areas of the brain are implicated and which functional systems are compromised. For instance, a brain tumor in the cerebellum at the back of your head may cause impaired movement, walking, balance, and coordination. Also, vision issues may happen if cancer affects the optic pathway responsible for sight. Brain cancer Tempe symptoms may include:
- Headaches that are more severe in the morning or keep you up at night.
- Seizures.
- Difficulty thinking, speaking, or comprehending language.
- Personality or behavior changes.
- Weakness or paralysis in one side or section of your body.
- Dizziness or issues with balance.
- Vision problems.
The difference between benign and malignant brain cancer
Though benign brain tumors can cause various major problems, they are not cancerous, which means they grow slowly and rarely spread to other regions. They also have more well-defined borders, making surgical excision easier, and they don’t generally reappear following removal. Conversely, malignant brain tumors are cancerous, develop quickly, can spread to other regions of your brain or central nervous system, and are life-threatening.
Treating brain cancer
Surgery is the most common therapy for brain tumors. Surgical removal and ongoing monitoring may be the only options for some cancers. Craniotomy, neuroendoscopy, laser ablation, and laser interstitial thermal treatment are all common surgical techniques for removing brain tumors.
Additionally, chemotherapy and radiation treatment can address brain cancer by shrinking the tumor, reducing its development, or stopping it from returning. Some radiation therapies for brain tumors include external beam radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and proton therapy.
The survival rate for brain tumors
Survival rates vary depending on the kind of brain tumor and your age, race, and overall health. Survival rates are usually estimated using averages. For instance, the five-year survival rate is the percentage of patients who live for at least five years after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. Meningioma, the most prevalent type of benign (noncancerous) primary brain tumor, has a five-year survival rate of:
- Over 96% for kids ages 14 and under.
- 97% in those aged 15 to 39.
- Over 87% of adults 40 and older.
The outlook for those living with brain cancer
Treatment for benign brain tumors is usually effective, and complete recovery is possible. However, the prognosis for a brain tumor might vary depending on various factors, including the type of tumor, its size, location, and overall health.
Seeking therapy immediately will help avoid issues arising when a tumor develops and puts pressure on your skull and brain tissue. It may also aid in preventing malignant tumors from spreading to other brain structures. Your doctor can advise you on the best course of therapy to avoid problems and manage any signs you may be experiencing.
Learning you have a brain tumor may be frightening and stressful. However, not all brain tumors are malignant; almost two-thirds are benign. Also, they can still create problems for your brain. Know that your medical team will create a specific and comprehensive treatment plan to help treat the tumor and enhance your quality of life. Call Arizona Center for Cancer Care to schedule your consultation today to determine which brain cancer treatments suit you.
