BSWRICS Brain Cancer Service Directory
Being told you have cancer can be a difficult experience. This tool has been prepared to help you find services that may be helpful to you and your family during your experience with cancer.
We cannot give you advice about the best services to use. You need to discuss this with your doctors. However, we hope this information will help you know more about what is available for you in the Barwon South Western region.
Brain Cancer
A brain or spinal cord tumour occurs when abnormal cells grow and form a mass or a lump. The tumour may be called benign (not cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), but both types can be serious and may need urgent treatment.
Many people diagnosed with a brain or spinal cord tumour first go to see their GP because they are feeling unwell. Occasionally a brain tumour will be found during a scan for something unrelated, such as a head injury. Some people will have sudden symptoms (such as loss of consciousness, severe headache or seizure) and go straight to a hospital’s emergency department. The doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history and will do a physical examination. You may be referred to have more tests and scans to confirm a diagnosis of a brain or spinal cord tumour. Source: Cancer Council Victoria.
For information about the services that can assist with your diagnosis please view our Brain Cancer Directory – Diagnosis (PDF).
Treatment for brain tumours may cause side effects. The severity and duration of side effects varies from person to person. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce or manage side effects. In the first instance, it is important to discuss side effects with your treating team who will be able to provide the best advice on management.
For information about the services that can assist with managing your side effects please view our Brain Cancer Directory – Managing Side Effects (PDF).
Cancer may cause you, and your family, to face a number of challenges and experience a range of emotions. It is important to access support if or when you need it.
For information about the services that can assist with support please view our Brain Cancer Directory – Seeking Support (PDF).
There are different options for managing and treating brain tumours. Your treating doctors will advise you of your options.
For information about the services that can assist with treatment please view our Brain Cancer Directory – Treatment (PDF).
