What are the treatment options for a brain tumor causing left-side paralysis?

Hello,

A tumour inside the head along with weakness or loss of movement on the left side of the body needs urgent evaluation by a neurosurgeon. The weakness may indicate that the tumour or associated swelling is affecting areas of the brain responsible for movement.

This does not necessarily mean that the tumour is cancerous. Brain tumours can be benign or malignant, and the treatment depends on the tumour's location, size, type and effect on surrounding brain tissue.

What Could Be Causing the Left-Sided Weakness?

Depending on the tumour's location, it may cause

• Weakness or inability to move the left arm or leg

• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance

• Numbness or altered sensation

• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech

• Severe or persistent headaches

• Vomiting, particularly with headache

• Seizures

• Changes in vision, behaviour or memory

Sudden worsening of weakness, loss of consciousness, seizures, severe headache, repeated vomiting or difficulty speaking should be treated as an emergency. Please go to the nearest emergency department immediately rather than waiting for a routine appointment.

What Will the Neurosurgeon Check?

The neurosurgeon will usually review the patient's

• MRI brain with contrast, if available

• CT brain scan, if performed

• Previous medical reports

• Neurological examination

• Tumour size and exact location

• Presence of brain swelling or pressure

• Patient's age and overall health

The doctor will then determine whether observation, medicines, biopsy, surgery or another treatment approach is appropriate.

Is Brain Tumour Surgery Always Required?

Not necessarily. Some tumours can be monitored, while others require surgery because of their size, location, growth or pressure on the brain.

When surgery is recommended, the aim may be to remove as much of the tumour as safely possible, obtain tissue for an accurate diagnosis, or relieve pressure on the brain. Depending on the tumour type, surgery may be followed by radiation therapy, chemotherapy or other treatments.

How HexaHealth Can Assist You

We can help you connect with experienced neurosurgeons at our partner hospitals for evaluation and treatment.

• Help you find a suitable neurosurgeon.

• Connect you with experienced specialists at partner hospitals.

• Assist with consultation and appointment coordination.

• Help you understand the treatment and surgery options.

• Assist in finding a suitable hospital based on your location and treatment requirements.

Please share your city and state, and tell us the patient's age. If you have an MRI/CT report, you can also share the key findings or diagnosis written in the report. We can then help you identify an appropriate neurosurgeon and the next step for evaluation.

Wishing you and your family good health always.
Warm regards,
Team HexaHealth