Understanding Brain Tumours

Are you looking for information that may help you understand brain tumour types, symptoms and treatment options?  Whether you or a loved one are directly affected by a brain tumour, gathering information will help you understand what type of tumour you are faced with and subsequent treatment options and side effects. It is key to understand what you may need to prepare for, in terms of home health care services or respite care that can offer support and guidance during this difficult time.

The first type of information that is most useful in understanding brain tumours is to learn more about what type of tumour it is. Brain tumours are not the result of a lifestyle choice or genetics. Unfortunately, there is still much that is unknown about why brain tumours occur in some people. There are over 140 types of brain tumour, as classified by the World Health Organization, this includes both cancerous and benign types of tumours.

Some of the most common types of brain tumours diagnosed in adults are:

• Glioblastoma: It is the most common primary brain tumour in adults and the most aggressive form of brain tumour. It is also known as brain cancer.
• Astrocytoma: These tumours can range from grade one to four in severity, with one being the least severe.
•  Meningioma:  A type of brain tumour that develops in the set of membranes that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. This tumour is more common in women and older adults. Tumours of this kind are usually low grade and slow growing, but some can be more aggressive.
• Oligodendrogliomas: More common in adults aged 40-60 and can be diagnosed as either low grade or high grade.

Treatment for brain tumours usually involves surgery (for more aggressive types of tumours), chemotherapy and radiation. Regardless of what type of tumour is being treated, chances are that the person with the brain tumour will experience side effects from the tumour itself and from the selected course of treatment.

Because the brain is responsible for so many of the body’s functions, there are many ways that a patient living with a brain tumour will experience changes in day to day life. Those living with or being treated for a brain tumour may experience:

• Reduction or loss of vision
• Loss of balance
• Memory problems
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Personality changes
• Communication difficulties
• Difficulty with cognitive thinking

The person diagnosed with a brain tumour will have many challenges and changes to deal with.  This will be hard on them as well as on loved ones who take on a caregiver role. Finding the right type of support that can help navigate through a difficult time is important. iCare Home Health is a source of support for patients and their families. We offer several programs to support brain tumour patients such as our Nurse At Home program, Personal Support at Home program, Respite Care and Live In Care options. Contact us to discuss what options are right for you.