What to Expect After a Glioma Diagnosis
- When undergoing glioma treatment, you will likely be working with a multidisciplinary team of professionals. This means you may see and be treated by specialists in neurosurgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and more.
- Cancer care extends beyond the medical aspects of treatment as well. Social workers, nurses, and other support staff will likely be involved in your care to help address both emotional and practical needs.
- Dr. Herbert Newton, a hematologist and oncologist at UH Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland, Ohio, stresses the importance of open communication between doctors and patients. You should feel comfortable asking your doctor for clarification or more information during any stage of your treatment journey.
The multidisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of a patient’s care are considered, from diagnosis to treatment planning and beyond. Each team member brings unique expertise to the table, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s condition and the development of an individualized treatment plan.
Read MoreCommunicating With Your Treatment Team
Dr. Herbert Newton, a hematologist and oncologist at UH Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland, Ohio, says it’s important to have thorough conversations with patients and their families or caretakers so they understand the treatment path and who will be involved in it. “I just go through the whole process and take our time until I know that they’re on the same page with me and that they have all their questions answered,” Dr. Newton tells SurvivorNet.“…We’re letting them know that we’re going to work together closely as a team,” he adds. “And I’ve also got other people on the team — surgeons, radiation doctors, whoever else we need to bring into it — we’re all going to be working together to try and get them through this stressful time. Especially in the beginning when it’s terrifying.”
By involving patients and their families in these discussions, the medical team fosters a sense of partnership that can feel empowering to patients. This collaborative environment helps patients feel supported and reduces the isolation that can accompany a cancer diagnosis.
As the patient, it’s important to speak up, and seek additional answers if you ever feel confused or conflicted during your treatment journey. This is why an open and honest doctor-patient relationship is so important.
Advanced Treatment Options
How you will be treated for glioma depends on many factors, including what sort of tumor you have been diagnosed with, its grade, and how aggressive it is.
Fortunately, the treatment of gliomas has evolved significantly in recent years, with advances in surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy offering new hope to patients. Neurosurgeons play a critical role in removing as much of the tumor as possible while preserving brain function. Advanced imaging technologies and minimally invasive surgical techniques have improved the precision and safety of these procedures.
Radiation oncologists use cutting-edge techniques such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and proton therapy to target glioma cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Medical oncologists develop chemotherapy regimens tailored to the specific type and grade of glioma, often incorporating targeted therapies and immunotherapy to enhance treatment efficacy.
Dr. Newton explains that post-surgery, it’s important for patients and their doctors to have an open discussion about how the cancer will be managed going forward if necessary.
“I always show them the MRI scans — their pre-op scans, their post-op scans — go through all the imaging so they know exactly what it looks like and how the tumor looks on the post-op MRIs,” he explains. “I show them the areas in there that we need to try to control and hopefully kill off with radiation and chemotherapy, or possibly a clinical trial.”
Clinical trials offer patients access to innovative therapies that may not yet be widely available. Participation in clinical trials provides an opportunity to benefit from the latest advancements in glioma treatment while contributing to the development of new treatment options for future patients.
What if I Need Emotional Support?
Beyond the physical challenges of glioma treatment, patients and their families face significant emotional and psychological stress. A glioma diagnosis can evoke feelings of fear, sadness, and uncertainty about the future. Addressing these emotional needs is an essential part of comprehensive care.
There are many options to help get your emotional needs met during the cancer journey, including:
- Social workers and counselors: These employees play a critical role in providing emotional support and guidance to patients and their families. They help patients cope with the emotional impact of the diagnosis, navigate practical challenges such as financial concerns, and connect them with community resources.
- Support groups: Groups meet both in-person and online, and offer patients and families a safe space to share their experiences, gain insights from others facing similar challenges, and build a sense of community.
- Nurses: Hospital or cancer center nurses also play a vital role in supporting patients and families throughout the treatment journey. They serve as a bridge between patients and the medical team, answering questions, addressing concerns, and providing education about the disease and its management. Their compassionate care helps ease the burden of treatment and fosters a sense of reassurance.
Can Holistic or Integrative Care Help?
In addition to medical treatment, holistic care can be really useful for addressing the broader needs of glioma patients and their families. Nutritionists and physical therapists can work with patients to optimize their physical health and quality of life.
Palliative care specialists focus on managing symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and cognitive changes, ensuring that patients remain as comfortable as possible throughout their treatment journey.
Lastly, spiritual care providers and chaplains offer support to patients and families grappling with existential and spiritual questions. Whether through prayer, meditation, or simply listening, these providers help patients find meaning and comfort during a challenging time.
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