Have you been experiencing a blinding headache; you might be having a brain tumor. Tumors are not always cancerous, but whichever form they take, expert treatment is vital. This is because they still present a risk by exerting pressure that affects brain function.
If you have been diagnosed with a brain tumor, you are probably wondering about the treatment approach The Woodlands neurosurgeon will take. The neurologist might take a conservative approach or opt for more aggressive treatments depending on the type of tumor, location, and size. Here is a look at the common treatment approaches to expect for your brain tumor.
Brain Tumor Surgery
Surgery is typically the best treatment for brain tumors if you have a low-grade or benign tumor. There are different types of brain surgeries. The right type will depend on the nature and location of your tumor. Accessible tumors are well-defined shapes and are on the part of your brain with less risk of neurological damage.
Some common surgical procedures for brain tumors include retractor brain surgery to reduce tissue damage. Inoperable or inaccessible brain tumors are not recommended for surgery, while cancerous tumors might need chemotherapy to destroy the cancerous cells.
Medication to Manage the Symptoms
There are instances when you may need a less invasive approach to treating your brain tumors. If your tumor is mild or presents a high risk during surgery, your neurosurgeon may choose the path of medical management. They may recommend pain medications, analgesics, anti-inflammatory medications such as steroids, anti-convulsant, and anti nausea medications.
These medications can help ease up swelling and manage your pain. However, each drug requires careful selection, depending on your unique circumstances. Regardless, they all aim to minimize your symptoms and promote healing.
Neurological Examination
The pressure exerted by tumors on your brain can significantly impact your cognitive function. In such cases, the neurological exam may be extremely beneficial. This test helps evaluate your cognitive processes, such as memory, attention, language use, sensation, and perceptual skills.
During your neurological exam, your neuropsychologist may engage you in various tasks and exercises to assess different aspects of your cognition. Depending on your examination results, your neurosurgeon determines your best and most effective treatment plan.
Rehabilitation
After receiving treatment, you may require rehabilitation. While treatment addresses the removal of brain tumors, it may not fully restore your brain’s function. That is why rehabilitation may be important, especially after brain tumor surgery.
Your neurosurgeon will guide you through your rehabilitation process, which may involve helping you adapt to the changes that might have occurred after your treatment. Since the rehabilitation process requires extensive physical and cognitive aspects of recovery, your neurosurgeon may collaborate with other medical specialists to help you get back on track.
Medical Follow-up
After receiving treatment for your brain tumor, your neurosurgeon may recommend regular monitoring and follow-up care. This step is crucial for your full recovery and brain health. Regular check-ups can help address any new symptoms you may be experiencing, potential complications, or recurrence of symptoms.
They also help your neurosurgeon determine your treatments’ effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. You may undergo a physical and medical examination to check for any symptoms during your check-up sessions.
Brain tumors can have adverse effects on you and your loved ones. They can also affect your everyday life significantly and hinder you from independence. However, with the above approaches, you can fully recover and return to doing what you love most.
Remember having a board-certified and experienced neurosurgeon as your guide is crucial. If you or a loved one experiences frequent headaches, seeking immediate medical attention, however mild, is crucial. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your chances of successful treatment.