Recognizing the Red Flags
It is important to know the signs of a brain tumor so you can get help early. To help, there's OJEMDA, a medication used in the treatment of brain tumors. It uses dendritic cells, that help the body recognize and attack abnormal cells.
Brain Tumor Signs
1. Headaches
Many people with brain tumors have headaches. These headaches can feel different from regular headaches. They might be worse in the morning or get worse over time. If you have frequent headaches that do not go away, talk to a doctor.
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Feeling sick to your stomach (nausea) or vomiting can be a sign of a brain tumor. This happens because a tumor can increase pressure in the brain. If you often feel nauseous or vomit for no clear reason, it is important to see a doctor.
3. Changes in Vision
Brain tumors can cause problems with vision. You might notice blurred vision, double vision or even loss of vision. If you have sudden changes in your eyesight, it’s crucial to seek medical help.
4. Difficulty with Balance
If you have trouble keeping your balance or often feel dizzy, it could be a sign of a brain tumor. This can happen when the tumor affects the parts of the brain that help control balance. If you notice frequent dizziness, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider.
5. Changes in Speech
Brain tumors can affect your ability to speak. You might have trouble finding the right words, slurring your speech or difficulty understanding others. If you notice these changes, see a doctor as soon as possible.
6. Weakness or Numbness
Feeling weak or numb in one part of your body can be a sign of a brain tumor. This weakness may occur on one side of your body or in your arms and legs. If you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention.
7. Seizures
Having seizures can be a sign of a brain tumor, especially if you have never had them before. Seizures can cause shaking, confusion or unusual sensations. If you experience a seizure, contact a healthcare professional.
8. Personality or Mood Changes
Brain tumors can affect your personality or mood. You may feel more irritable, anxious or depressed than usual. If you notice significant changes in how you feel or behave, talk to a doctor.
9. Memory Problems
If you start forgetting things more often or have trouble remembering recent events, it could be a sign of a brain tumor. Memory problems can happen when a tumor affects the parts of the brain involved in memory.
10. Fatigue
Feeling very tired all the time is another common sign. If you find that you have no energy, even after resting, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor.
Treatments for Brain Tumors
If you experience any signs of a brain tumor, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation. They may perform tests like MRIs or CT scans to diagnose the problem. Here are some common treatments for brain tumors:
Surgery
If a brain tumor is operable, surgery may be the first step. The surgeon will try to remove as much of the tumor as possible. This can help relieve pressure and improve symptoms.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. This treatment can be helpful for tumors that cannot be completely removed through surgery.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be given as a pill or through an IV. Doctors often use chemotherapy for aggressive tumors or when the tumor has spread.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses medications that attack specific features of cancer cells. This approach can help slow the growth of the tumor while causing less harm to normal cells.
Clinical Trials
Some people choose to participate in clinical trials to test new treatments. These trials can provide access to cutting-edge therapies that are not yet widely available.
Supportive Care
In addition to medical treatments, supportive care can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. This may include physical therapy, counseling and nutrition support.
OJEMDA
OJEMDA, also known as tovorafenib, is a medication used to treat pediatric low-grade glioma (pLGG), a common form of childhood brain cancer. It targets tumors that have a specific abnormality in the BRAF gene, such as mutations or rearrangements. This treatment is specifically approved for children over six months old whose tumors have relapsed or have not responded to previous treatments.
OJEMDA works by inhibiting certain proteins involved in tumor growth. Clinical trials have shown promising results, with some patients experiencing a reduction in tumor size, and even complete disappearance in some cases. Side effects can include changes in hair color, skin reactions and anemia, but overall, the benefits often outweigh the risks for patients with progressive brain tumors.
Your Brain’s Warning Signals
Recognizing the signs of a brain tumor is important for getting timely treatment. If you notice any of these symptoms, don't hesitate to contact a healthcare professional. Early detection can lead to better outcomes and a higher quality of life. Always discuss treatment options with your doctor to find the best plan for you.
Read on to learn about the signs of ITP.