The connection between seizures and brain tumors is best explained through the prevalence of brain tumor-related seizures— more than one-third of people diagnosed with a brain tumor will experience a seizure at least once.
While considered the earliest symptom of a brain tumor, seizures can also happen as a result of a stroke, brain infection such as meningitis, or closed head injury. A thorough diagnostic evaluation can therefore differentiate between a brain tumor and other neurological conditions that may primarily manifest in similar ways. Consulting a neurosurgeon can help you get further insight into the link between seizures and brain tumors.
Why Brain Tumors Cause Seizures
The reasons behind the association between seizures and brain tumors are not completely understood. However, some theories suggest that the tumor may exert pressure on the surrounding brain tissue. Such may result in the excessive firing of glutamate— an excitatory chemical messenger in the brain known to have a role in the occurrence of seizure activity. Seizures could also be due to an imbalance of chemicals in the brain caused by the tumor itself.
Treatment for Seizures and Brain Tumors
Brain tumors require a complicated treatment approach by a multidisciplinary team. Your neurosurgeon will work with other types of medical practitioners to create an overall treatment plan.
Treatment depends on various factors such as the size and grade of your tumor, whether your tumor is putting pressure on critical areas of your brain, possible side effects, and your overall health.
Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects for each of the options below and how they can be managed.
· Medications
Oral chemotherapy drugs, anticonvulsants, and painkillers are among the medications your doctor will prescribe to treat your brain tumor. Chemotherapy works to shrink or eliminate brain tumors, while the antiepileptic drugs or anticonvulsants are used to control seizures while the tumor is being treated.
· Radiation
Radiation therapy utilizes powerful radiation energy aimed at destroying the tumor. This option is often done prior to surgery to shrink the brain tumor.
· Surgery
The removal of a brain tumor is the best way to not only prevent its growth and recurrence but also to address all of the neurological symptoms associated with it, including seizures. This procedure is also intended to provide tissue for diagnosis and genetic analysis, which can help make other treatments more effective and improve the person’s prognosis.
However, this option may not be recommended if the location of the tumor is close to major blood vessels or the brainstem, where essential brain functions can be disrupted.
Finding a Reliable Neurosurgeon in Lone Tree, CO
If you’re seeking either an expert opinion or treatment for your brain tumor, you’re in good hands with our highly skilled neurosurgeons at Front Range Neurosurgery. With their extensive knowledge base and unrivaled surgical skills, Dr. Rauzzino and Dr. Boyer have earned a solid reputation for giving their patients the best possible outcomes.
To request an appointment with either Dr. Rauzzino or Dr. Boyer, call our clinic at (303) 790-1800 or use our online request form. We look forward to serving you!
