Stage 4 brain cancer timeline
Glioblastoma is the most dangerous form of brain cancer. This type of cancer can kill people if not treated right away. It causes severe damage to the brain, resulting in loss of memory, attention and other mental functions.
It also makes it hard to perform everyday activities like eating, drinking and sleeping. In most cases, it is fatal within a year or so after diagnosis.
How do I get diagnosed with glioblastoma?
Unlike other types of cancer, there is no single test to detect brain tumors. Instead, doctors diagnose brain tumors based on how they look under a microscope and how quickly they grow. They then assign a grade to each type of brain tumor, which ranges from 1 to 4.
A high-grade brain tumor is more likely to spread than a low-grade one. This is because the cells that form these tumors are more aggressive and able to reproduce quickly.
The cancerous cells can break through the surface of your brain and invade other parts of your body. This is known as metastasis, and it is a common problem with most brain tumors.
Your doctor will give you a full physical exam and take a complete set of blood and tissue samples from your body to find out what type of cancer you have. They may also do other tests, depending on your symptoms.
Once they find the cancerous cells, the team will work together to plan treatment. They may use surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or a combination of these therapies.
They will also try to prevent the cancer from coming back. Your treatment plan will depend on several factors including the type and size of your brain tumor, its location in your brain and its genetic make-up. They will also consider your age, general health, your symptoms and what your preferences are.
When you have a brain tumor, your doctor will work with you and other members of your team to create a plan that is right for you. Your team will help you decide which treatment option is best for you and will make sure you are getting the most effective treatments possible.
What are the symptoms of a stage 4 brain cancer?
The most common symptoms of a brain tumor include headaches, seizures and feeling sick (vomiting). These symptoms can be uncomfortable or even dangerous. They are caused by the cancer cells causing swelling and inflammation in your brain. They can also cause problems with your breathing or heart rate. You should always tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.
Your doctor will also check for signs of cancer that can be seen on an MRI or CT scan. These signs can include swelling, irregularities in your movements or abnormal changes in your skin color.
Symptoms can also include nausea and vomiting. These are usually not serious, but if you have them they can be very upsetting and difficult to deal with.
