Meningioma
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
A meningioma
is a tumor that starts in the meninges of the brain and spinal cord. The meninges are the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord. They prevent germs and other substances from entering the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are slow-growing and benign (not cancer).
Signs and symptoms
depend on the size and location of the tumor. You may have no symptoms, or you may have any of the following:
- Headaches, especially right after you wake up
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness or inability to move a limb
- Personality or behavior changes
- Memory loss
- Trouble speaking or changes in vision
- Seizures
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have any of the following signs of a stroke:
- Numbness or drooping on one side of your face
- Weakness in an arm or leg
- Confusion or difficulty speaking
- Dizziness, a severe headache, or vision loss
Seek care immediately if:
- You vomit repeatedly, and cannot keep any food or liquids down.
- You have a severe headache, or you feel dizzy.
Call your doctor or oncologist if:
- You have a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment
depends on the location and size of the tumor, and your signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you have regular tests and follow-up visits to watch for changes. You may also need any of the following:
- Surgery may be done to remove the tumor.
- Endovascular embolization is a procedure to reduce or stop blood flow to the meningioma and decrease its size. Your healthcare provider will insert a catheter into a blood vessel that goes to your brain. When the artery that is supplying the meningioma is reached, a coil or glue is injected to block blood flow to the tumor.
- Hormone therapy may help to decrease the size of tumors that need estrogen for growth.
- Radiation therapy uses high energy x-ray beams to kill tumor cells and decrease the size of the tumor.
- Chemotherapy is used to kill tumor cells.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Manage your symptoms:
- Drink liquids as directed. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. If you have nausea or diarrhea from treatment, extra liquids may help decrease your risk for dehydration.
- Eat healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. This may help you feel better during treatment and decrease side effects. You may need to change what you eat during treatment. Do not eat foods or drink liquids that cause gas, such as cabbage, beans, onions, or soft drinks. A nutritionist may help to plan the best meals and snacks for you.
- Be physically active, as directed. Exercise may improve your energy levels and appetite. Your healthcare provider can help you create a physical activity plan.
Follow up with your doctor or oncologist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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