Brain

Brain cancer

The brain is a vital organ and part of the central nervous system, it carries out many vital functions and controls actions of the body. Brain cancer can affect any part of the brain and there are two types of tumours that can occur in the brain called benign and malignant tumours. Both may disrupt the brain and hinder it from functioning properly. For this reason, it is crucial to seek and receive treatment as soon as possible.

Benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumours are graded on their ability to grow and come back after treatment. To determine suitable treatment for a brain tumour, a consultant oncologist would need information on where the tumour began, how far it has spread, and if it is benign or malignant. 

Types of brain tumours

Benign tumours
A benign tumour is a non-cancerous mass of cells. These tumours are usually slow-growing and less likely to spread to other parts of the body. It can cause difficulties and symptoms, so its progress must be monitored through regular scans.  If the tumour is in the brain, it can push areas of the brain aside and cause symptoms. It is easier to treat the tumour while it is small. For this reason, it is important to detect and treat the tumour early. 

Malignant tumours (Cancerous)
A malignant tumour is cancerous and can grow more rapidly in some cases. This type of tumour can spread to other parts of the body. 

Symptoms

Symptoms caused by a brain tumour can depend on where in the brain it is situated and the rate at which it is growing. Some people may feel minimal symptoms, whereas others may struggle to manage them. The most common symptom is a headache, but usually, other additional symptoms will present.

Here are some common symptoms that may be experienced:

• Headaches, sickness, vomiting and seizures – caused by a brain tumour an increased pressure on the skull
• Problems with movement or speech 
• Changes to how you feel, see or hear
• Irregular periods, infertility, weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes or mood swings – caused by a change in hormone level

If you experience any of the above symptoms that aren’t normal for you, contact your GP who can refer you for further investigations.

Further information & support

Being diagnosed with brain cancer and deciding on the best treatment can be daunting, for full details on brain cancer treatment options or to discuss a diagnosis, please contact our enquiries team. Our enquiries team will endeavour to help you assess your treatment options and advise which consultants could be best placed on planning your treatment pathway.

Macmillan Cancer Support offers a wide range of information and support, as well as help with your practical, emotional, and financial needs. All telephone helplines are free and confidential, and interpreting services are also available.

Freephone: 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 8.00pm) Website: www.macmillan.org.uk