A brain tumor is a mass that develops in the brain and is linked with millions of deaths globally. These tumors can also develop near the brain tissues and spread to other body parts. There are different types of brain tumors; each is named after its origin.
The following factors trigger the occurrence of brain tumors;
- Old age
- A weak immune unit
- Family history
- Radiation exposure
- Different cancers spread to the brain.
Below we discuss everything you need to know about brain tumors, and second opinion diagnosis.
Brain Tumours Second Opinion
A brain tumor second opinion is popular for families and friends who want another statement regarding the brain tumor diagnosis. A second opinion helps patients confirm their diagnosis and develop different treatment methods.
Seeking help from an experienced brain surgeon is crucial, enabling you to determine the best care for your loved one. The main reasons you should have a brain tumor second opinion include the following;
- Access new medicinal trials
- Learn more about the diagnosis
- Validate your diagnosis
- Get to know more about your medical team
- Make sure you have the best treatment plan
- Confirm your diagnosis.
Types of Brain Tumours
There are different types of brain tumors, and your doctor will conduct a special lab test to get more information about the cells and eventually determine the type of tumor.
Remember, not all brain tumors are cancerous; they are generally called benign or noncancerous tumors. On the other hand, cancerous tumors are also called malignant brain tumors. The most common types of brain tumors include the following;
- Gliomas- glioma occurs when harmful cells that resemble glial cells form in the body. Glial cells are essential, as they support and surround the brain’s nerve cells. The most common types of gliomas are; glioblastoma, astrocytoma, and ependymoma. Most gliomas are malignant, though some are benign.
- Embryonal tumors- these tumors start in the left-over cells after fetal development. The embryonal cells remain in the brain and mainly occur in children. The most common medulloblastoma tumor is usually found in the back section of the brain, commonly known as the cerebellum.
- Choroid Plexus- these tumors form in the cells that form the liquid surrounding the spinal cord and brain. Choroid plexus can be malignant or benign, which is more common among children.
- Germ cell tumors begin in the reproductive cells that develop into egg and sperm cells. However, they are also found in other body parts, like the brain. Germ cell tumors that form in the brain are located near the pituitary or pineal gland. These tumors are mainly benign and occur in children.
Symptoms of Brain Tumours
The signs of a brain tumor significantly depend on its location and size. The symptoms also depend on how fast it develops or the tumor grade. The main signs and symptoms of brain tumors include the following;
- Vomiting or nausea
- Persistent headache
- Loss of memory
- Hearing difficulty
- Speech problems
- Dizziness
- Behavior or personality changes.
How are Brain Tumours Diagnosed
Your surgeon will examine your symptom and determine the type of brain tumor and its length. The following methods are used in diagnosing brain tumors;
- A neurologic test enables your surgeon to know how your brain is functioning; it is also called neuro status or check. Here, the medical officer checks your pupil’s reaction to light, how you wake up, and your memory.
- PET scan- takes pictures of your body after a tiny radiation part called a tracer is put in the body. This part shows how different chemicals work in your body, and this test shows whether the tumor has spread.
- X-Ray- this test shows the tumor’s size and location, and your doctor might give you a liquid to make the cells show better.
- Biopsy- this process is when the tumor’s sample is taken for testing. These tests indicate whether the cancer is malignant or benign.
- A lumbar puncture is also called a spinal tab, which takes a tiny sample from the spinal cord fluid.
Brain Tumor Treatment
Brain tumors can be treated using the following ways;
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
- Medicines
- Radiosurgery.
How to Avoid Brain Tumours
Brain tumors attack people in all age brackets but are most common among children. This condition is fatal and should be addressed immediately to increase your chances of survival. However, specific lifestyle changes can keep you free from it, and below we discuss a few;
Avoid Tobacco
Smoking causes different cancers, including the voice box, throat, and mouth. You are advised against smoking or staying near smokers, as it puts you at risk of this condition. However, avoiding smoking is not enough, as chewing tobacco also causes different cancers.
Avoiding tobacco is an excellent way to prevent cancer, and you can reach out to your doctor to learn more about stop-smoking products.
Eat Healthy Diets
Research is being carried out to show the relationship between a healthy diet and cancer prevention, but it still reduces the risk. Kindly consider the following;
- Eating plenty of vegetables and fruits
- Avoiding alcohol or taking it in moderation
- Avoiding processed meats.
Stay Physically Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight
A moderate weight protects you from different cancers, including lung, prostate, and colon cancer. You are also advised to participate in physical activity, as it helps you control weight and avoid breast and colon cancer.
Taking part in any physical activity has massive benefits to your health, and you should have at least one-fifty minutes of physical activity per week.
Stay Protected from the Sun
Skin cancer is one of the most common yet preventable types. The following tips will lower your chances of getting a tumor;
- Conceal your skin
- Shun the midday sun
- Avoid skimping on sunscreens.
Final Thoughts
A brain tumor is fatal and should be treated immediately after diagnosis. This condition is mainly common among children but also in other age brackets. However, specific lifestyle changes will lower your chances of acquiring it; the above article has discussed some.
Reach out for more https://www.aaroncohen-gadol.com/patients/second-opinion/seeking-a-neurosurgical-second-opinion/purpose information.
