What are the side effects of brain cancer treatment?
Side effects of brain cancer treatment vary with the treatment plan (for example, surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation) and the overall health status of the patient. Most treatment plans try to keep all side effects to a minimum. For some patients, the side effects of brain cancer treatment can be severe. Treatment plans should include a discussion of potential side effects and the likelihood of them developing, so the patient and their caregivers (family, friends) can make appropriate treatment decisions in conjunction with their medical team. Also, if side effects develop, the patient has some knowledge of what to do about them such as when to take certain medicines or when to call their doctor to report health changes. Surgical side effects include an increase in current symptoms, damage to normal brain tissue, brain swelling, and seizures. Other changes in brain functions such as muscle weakness, mental changes, and decreases in any brain-controlled function can occur. Combinations
