Brain cancer

Our experienced, multidisciplinary team works together to provide complete brain cancer treatment. We offer a number of brain cancer services at our brain cancer treatment center, including:

• Access to clinical trials
• A variety of cancer treatment options
• Advanced treatment options
• American Cancer Society resource center
• Cancer support services, including nurse navigation and counseling
• Collaboration with neurologists and neurosurgeons for expedited care
• Support from oncology-dedicated social workers and chaplains

Unlike other forms of cancer, there are not many preventive screening options for brain tumors. Patients typically experience symptoms that lead them to visit a doctor.

Cancerous and noncancerous brain tumor symptoms depend largely on the tumor's location, its size and how fast it grows. General warning signs of a brain tumor include:

• Blurred or double vision, or loss of vision
• Difficulty maintaining balance
• Headaches
• Increased fatigue and/or sleepiness
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Seizures

If the tumor is pressing on or growing into nearby brain tissue, certain functions may be affected, such as:

• Ability to control the bladder or bowel
• Ability to do learned movements or gestures
• Ability to process information
• Comprehension and/or expression of language
• Coordination and walking
• Memory, sensation and processing of sensory input
• Muscle strength or sensation in one or more parts of the body
• Personality or behavior (lacking emotion or impulsiveness)

After visiting your doctor with signs of a brain tumor, your doctor may order tests — including imaging studies or a biopsy — to confirm your diagnosis. If a brain cancer diagnosis is confirmed, you will receive individualized cancer treatment from our team of oncologists, neurologists and neurosurgeons.

The type of brain tumor you have, as well as your health, will determine which treatment is best for you. We offer a number of treatment options through our oncology program, including:

• Chemotherapy
• Infusion services with a chemotherapy-certified nurse
• Stereotactic radiosurgery (a painless procedure that involves no incisions)
• Stereotactic targeted radiation therapy
• Traditional surgery for tumor removal

As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, our family of hospitals provides comprehensive cancer services with convenient access to cutting-edge therapies for people facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology expertise ensures you have access to locally trusted care with the support of a globally recognized network.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (804) 591-4152.