After being treated for a brain tumour, you may be offered physiotherapy, speech therapy or occupational therapy.
These therapies aim to speed up your recovery and help you cope with any problems caused by the tumour.
- An occupational therapist will recommend any equipment or alterations to your home that may help you carry out daily activities.
- A speech therapist will help you with any speech or swallowing problems.
- A physiotherapist will help you to use parts of the body that have been affected by the tumour.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has made recommendations on the standards of care that brain tumour patients should receive. For more information, read the Improving Outcomes guidelines.
Epilepsy may affect some patients for up to six months after surgery. On rare occasions epilepsy lasts longer than six months.
Sports and activities
After you have been treated for a brain tumour, you must permanently avoid contact sports, such as rugby and boxing. You can start other activities again, with the agreement of your doctor, once you have recovered.
Swimming unsupervised is not recommended for around one year after treatment, as there is a risk that you could have an epileptic fit while in the water.
Sex
It is safe to have sex after treatment for a benign brain tumour. Women should avoid becoming pregnant for six months and should discuss the implications of any medication needed with their specialist.
Going back to work
You will become tired more easily following treatment for a brain tumour. You may wish to return to work and normal life as soon as possible, but it is a good idea to return part-time to begin with and only to go back full-time when you feel able to.
If you have experienced seizures, do not work with machinery or at heights.
Help and support
A brain tumour is often life changing. You may feel angry, frightened and emotionally drained. Your doctor or specialist should be able to refer you to a social worker and counsellor for help with the practical and emotional aspects of your diagnosis.
There are many organisations and helplines, such as Brain Tumour UK, that provide information and support.
