Regularly occurring headaches can occur for any number of reasons. However, in some people they are actually a symptom of a serious tumor or cancer risk. This isn't always the case, though, and knowing when to visit the doctor is crucial. It is also important to know how radiation therapy can help.

When Headaches May Be Brain Cancer

While headaches are obviously not always a sign of brain cancer, there are instances in which they could be dangerous. For example, severe headaches that worsen when active may be a sign of tumors. When they are paired with problems like seizures, confusion, sensory changes, personality changes, serious fatigue, difficulty with balance, and changes in speech, there's a chance it could be brain cancer.

Talking to a cancer doctor about it right away is crucial. They will x-ray the brain and identify any possible signs of cancer or tumors. If there are no signs, then another problem may be causing these symptoms. However, if there is sign of brain cancer, it needs to be treated as soon as possible with radiation therapy.

How Radiation Therapy Can Help

Radiation therapy is used to treat brain cancer because of its non-invasive nature. Surgery is harder to utilize when dealing with brain cancer because of the delicate nature of the tumors and the ways they attach to the brain. Removing brain cells is lobotomy and could impact a person's physical and mental health for years.

Radiation therapy focuses damaging radiation directly on the tumor (avoiding the other areas of the brain) to kill the cells and not only stop the tumor from growing, but also destroy the cells. It is used to treat a variety of cancer types, but is very helpful with brain cancer.

How To Pay For Treatment

When considering radiation therapy for brain cancer, it is important to understand the cost. Typically, it will cost several thousands of dollars per treatment. For those without insurance, this can be a very difficult expense. However, most insurance plans, such as Medicare Part B, will cover a majority of radiation therapy costs.

In some instances, it is also possible to get financial help by talking to the hospital and locating a social service group who help those with brain cancer get the treatment they need to survive. It is important to talk to the doctor about treatment and payment before scheduling an appointment.

While radiation therapy does have some side effects (such as nausea and hair loss), it can help manage brain cancer tumors and save a person's life. While it's not necessary to go to the doctor every time you have a headache, if they are severe enough, it may be necessary. Click here for more information.