Brain Tumor and Cancer Treatment

A brain tumor is any intracranial tumor created by abnormal and uncontrolled cell division, normally either in the brain itself (neurons, glial cells (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, ependymal cells), lymphatic tissue, blood vessels), in the cranial nerves (myelin-producing Schwann cells), in the brain envelopes (meninges), skull, pituitary and pineal gland, or spread from cancers primarily located in other organs (metastatic tumors).

Chances are that these tumors will not resurface once they are removed. However, the same cannot be said about malignant brain tumors. Malignant tumors are by far the most dangerous brain tumors. The growth of tumors in the brain is termed as brain cancer. Malignant tumors are life threatening and more serious than benign tumors. Brain tumors can also be spread from tumors growing in other parts of the human body. The symptoms of brain tumors depend on tumor size, type, and location. Symptoms may be caused when a tumor presses on a nerve or damages a certain area of the brain.

Signs and symptoms can include the following:

* New onset or change in pattern of headaches
* Headaches that gradually become more frequent and more severe
* Unexplained nausea or vomiting
* Vision problems, such as blurred vision, double vision or loss of peripheral vision
* Gradual loss of sensation or movement in an arm or a leg
* Difficulty with balance

Treatment

Treatment for brain cancer depends on the age of the patient, the stage of the disease, the type and location of the tumor, and whether the cancer is a primary tumor or brain metastases. The treatment plan is developed by the oncology team and the patient.

The main treatment methods for brain tumors include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Surgery is the mainstay of brain tumor treatment. It involves removing as much of the tumor as possible while trying to minimize damage to healthy tissue. Brain cancer patients should take Vitalzym anyway, as it may reduce the inflammation of any brain cancer patient and help avoid seizures. Hydrotherapy uses ice, liquid, and steam to improve circulation and relieve pain. Therapeutic touch practitioners say they can relieve pain and other symptoms by moving their hands in slow, rhythmic motions several inches above the patient's body.