Rehabilitation During Brain Cancer Treatment
Rehabilitation can be an important part of the
brain cancer treatment plan. The goals of rehabilitation will depend on the person's needs and how the tumor has affected his or her daily activities. The healthcare team will make every effort to help the patient return to normal activities as soon as possible. Several types of therapists can help with rehabilitation during brain cancer treatment, including:
- Physical therapists -- Brain tumors and their treatment may cause paralysis, weakness, and problems with balance. Physical therapists can help patients regain strength and balance.
- Speech therapists -- Speech therapists can help patients who have trouble speaking, expressing thoughts, or swallowing.
- Occupational therapists -- Occupational therapists can help patients learn to manage activities of daily living, such as eating, using the toilet, bathing, and dressing.
Children with brain tumors may have special needs and may require tutors in the hospital or at home. Children who have problems learning or remembering what they learn may need tutors or special classes when they return to school.
Proper Nutrition During Brain Cancer Treatment
It is important to eat well during and after brain cancer treatment, because eating well may help patients feel better and have more energy. However, eating well can be hard, especially during or soon after brain cancer treatment, when patients may be uncomfortable or tired. Side effects of brain cancer treatment include:
- Poor appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Food tastes differently than it used to.
A registered dietitian can suggest ways to deal with these problems.