Primary brain cancer

Treatment for cancer that starts in the brain is based on the type and location of the cancer and other things, such as your overall health. Treatment options may include:

Surgery.

Surgery is often a key part of treatment. The doctor will remove as much of a tumor as possible without harming nearby brain tissue.

Radiation therapy.

This uses high-dose X-rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Chemotherapy.

These medicines kill fast-growing cells, including cancer cells and some normal cells.

Immunotherapy.

This treatment helps the immune system fight cancer. It may be given in several ways.

Your doctor will talk with you about your options and then make a treatment plan.

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Follow your doctor's instructions to relieve pain. Pain from cancer and surgery can almost always be controlled. Use pain medicine when you first notice pain, before it becomes severe.
• Eat healthy food. If you do not feel like eating, try to eat food that has protein and extra calories to keep up your strength and prevent weight loss.
• Get some physical activity every day, but do not get too tired.
• Get enough sleep, and take time to do things you enjoy. This can help reduce stress.
• Think about joining a support group. Or discuss your concerns with your doctor or a counselor.
• If you are vomiting or have diarrhea:
  • Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Choose water and other clear liquids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
  • When you are able to eat, try clear soups, mild foods, and liquids until all symptoms are gone for 12 to 48 hours. Other good choices include dry toast, crackers, cooked cereal, and gelatin dessert, such as Jell-O.
• If you have not already done so, prepare a list of advance directives. Advance directives are instructions to your doctor and family members about what kind of care you want if you become unable to speak or express yourself.