Brain Tumors: Newly Diagnosed

Coping with fear

It’s normal to feel afraid. Learning about your tumor and about your treatment choices can make you feel less afraid. It also helps you work with your healthcare team to make the best choices for your treatment.

Working with your healthcare team

Your healthcare team will likely include:

• Neurologist. This is a healthcare provider who specializes in treating problems with the brain or nerves.

• Neurosurgeon. This is a surgeon who specializes on surgery in the brain or nerves.

• Medical oncologist. This is a healthcare provider who specializes in using medicines to treat cancer.

• Radiation oncologist. This is a healthcare provider who specializes in using radiation to treat cancer.

Your healthcare providers and the other members of your healthcare team will answer any questions you may have. They’ll help you through each of the steps you’ll take before, during, and after treatment. Your team will let you know what tests you need and the results of those tests. They’ll guide you in making treatment decisions and help prepare you and your loved ones for what’s ahead.

Learning about treatment choices

To decide the best course of treatment for you, your healthcare team needs to know as much as they can about you and your brain tumor. You will need to have tests done and will work with more than one healthcare provider. You may decide that you want to get a second opinion to help you choose a treatment. Your healthcare team can help you do this.

Getting support

Coping with a tumor can be very stressful. Talk with your healthcare team about seeing a counselor for extra help and support. They can refer you to someone who can help you and your family. You can also visit support groups in person or online to talk with other people coping with tumors. Ask your healthcare team about local support groups.