Back

CANCER - The Brain - Other Treatment

Steroid therapy
Steroids are drugs which are used to reduce the swelling that often surrounds brain tumours. Although steroids do not treat the tumour itself, they are very useful in improving symptoms and making you feel better. They may be used before or after surgery, or during or after radiotherapy.

If you are taking steroids for some time you may experience some temporary side effects. These can include water retention, high blood pressure and a slightly greater risk of getting infections. Some people also experience difficulties getting to sleep at night, mood changes, feeling low or depressed and feeling `high' or over active. If you take steroids for a long time you may notice that you put on weight, especially on your face, waist and shoulders.

Occasionally the level of sugar in your blood may rise. To detect this you will be asked to give a urine sample, which can be checked for sugar.

These side effects may seem hard to bear at the time, but it is important to remember they are temporary and will gradually disappear as the steroid dose is reduced. While you are having steroid treatment you should carry a steroid card (which your doctor or nurse will give you) to show the type of steroid and the dose you are taking. This is important as it may be dangerous to stop taking steroids suddenly. The dose must be gradually reduced by your doctor. 

Anticonvulsants
You may also have to take anticonvulsants, drugs to prevent epileptic fits. These drugs are often used for people who have brain tumours and also after brain surgery. You may be prescribed them even if you have never had a fit, to help prevent this from happening. There are several different types of anticonvulsants. You should let the doctor know if you experience side effects. Sometimes it is necessary to take more than one type of anticonvulsant tablets.

Some people will be given radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy after the initial primary surgery. When it is given in this way it is often referred to as adjuvant therapy. If surgery is not possible radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy may be given as the only treatment.