World Brain Tumor Day 2023: Is there a connection between fatigue and brain tumour? expert shares all

brain Tumour: An abnormal growth or mass of cells in or around the brain is known as a brain tumour. Some tumors may grow rapidly, or some may take a long time to grow.

Brain tumors can be cancerous (known as malignant) or non-cancerous (benign); In general, only about one-third of brain tumors are cancer. But whether they are cancerous or not, these tumors can affect brain function and overall health.

As they grow, they begin to put pressure on the blood vessels, tissues, and nerves around them.

In an interview with Zee English, Dr. Jayesh Sardhara, Senior Consultant – Neuro & Spine Surgery, Fortis Hospital shared the connection between fatigue and brain tumour.

“Brain tumor formation can begin at any age, in both children and adults. Meningioma is the most common type of benign tumor, with a very good prognosis once it is completely resected. The most serious type of brain tumor (glioblastoma) is becoming more common in the elderly population, with a median survival of 14 to 16 months,” says Dr. Jayesh.

Signs and Symptoms of Brain Tumor

Since the human skull is rigid and does not provide enough space for tumor expansion, it can cause serious complications regardless of whether the tumor is cancerous or noncancerous. Its symptoms are as follows:

– weakness

– difficulty walking

– balance problems

– partial or complete loss of vision

Difficulty understanding or using language

– memory problems

When is the problem of brain tumor

Direct expansion and destruction of healthy brain tissue

– putting pressure on surrounding tissue

– Increase (intracranial pressure) ie. pressure inside your skull

– leading to a build-up of fluid in the brain

Blocking the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through spaces within the brain, causing these spaces to expand

– bleeding in the brain

Although, in some cases the tumor may not show any signs or symptoms, the tumor may also not grow enough to compress the surrounding tissue.

The link between brain tumors and fatigue

Basically, fatigue is a feeling of lack of energy and extreme tiredness. Fatigue caused by a tumor is different from simply being tired and can interfere with your normal routine. Even though fatigue is the most common side effect of cancer treatment, it can also include the following signs and symptoms:

– cognitive changes: difficulty concentrating or speaking; short term memory loss

– Change in activity: decreased physical activity

– Life changes: changed sports, study, or work habits; Decreased family bonding.

– emotional changes: feelings of sadness or grief

Dr. Jayesh highlights, “The exact link between brain tumor and fatigue is unknown, however, there are many other factors that can lead to this condition. The body’s response to tumor growth involves the destruction of tumor cells and loss of tissue repair, which uses a lot of energy. Your body works hard to fight the cancer using the energy it normally uses for day-to-day activity.”

How to deal with brain tumor related fatigue

Fatigue can be part of a vicious cycle due to the side effects of brain tumors and their treatments. Many other associated symptoms can make you feel more tired and make fatigue worse and, as a result, increase the effect of those symptoms.

However, if you can find the cause of your fatigue, and are able to find a way to break the cycle, it will really help to deal with the situation.

many people follow ‘5 ps’Especially with the support of family and friends to combat fatigue. It can help by giving you gentle reminders or prompts to help you manage your daily activities.

to prioritize: Write a list of activities you do regularly and assign them in order of priority, with number one being the most important to you.

Plan: A diary should also be kept and a list of activities and situations that cause fatigue should be made. This can help you identify potential triggers and patterns and better manage your energy.

Pacing: Taking short breaks throughout the day and between certain activities can help reduce the effects of fatigue. A simple rule could be to take a ten-minute rest every hour, but try not to fall asleep during this rest – as this can affect your sleep patterns. Also, the important thing to keep in mind is that if you get tired, you can always stop and change your plan if necessary. Keeping 20-30% of your energy in reserve can keep you from burning out. “Spending” wisely by asking others to help you can be a great way to save your energy.

Posture: Paying attention to your body posture and posture can help you manage fatigue caused by a brain tumor. For example, completing tasks while sitting instead of standing; This can help you save a huge amount of energy.

Keeping things that are frequently needed at an accessible reach, it helps prevent bending or extra motion to reach things whenever needed. Make sure you are not standing or sitting in one position for too long.

physically active: This may seem like it will make you more tired, but moderate exercise is believed to be helpful. It will also help increase your energy levels, thereby:

– less pain

– improved sleep quality

– stimulate your appetite

– boost your sense of well-being

While there is an association between fatigue and brain tumors, implementing these steps can help better manage the condition.