Understanding Meningiomas

Have you fallen or had persistent symptoms such as headaches, vision changes, and seizures prompting you to the emergency department? You then had imaging performed, such as an MRI or CT scan of your head, and were told you have a meningioma? The doctor explains that a meningioma is a type of tumor, and the word tumor overpowers every other thought instantly, and questions start to arise. Ok, let's take a deep breath. Although it is a type of tumor, meningiomas are often benign, meaning they are not harmful. They are usually slow-growing tumors that can take up to years to diagnose.  

What causes meningiomas, and what are the risk factors? 

The cause of meningiomas is unknown. However, certain people are at higher risk, which includes women, increase with age, history of radiation, or if you have been diagnosed with neurofibromatosis. 

What are the symptoms of meningiomas?

Symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the meningioma. Although most meningiomas are benign and may not have symptoms per se, if they are in a particular place or big enough to apply pressure to surrounding areas, the symptoms may include the following: headaches, seizures, behavioral changes, cognitive changes, vision changes, hearing loss, muscle weakness, nausea or vomiting.

Will I need surgery to remove a meningioma?

It’s possible, but the answer may not always be surgery. There are other options, such as observation. Other treatment options include radiotherapy or, rarely chemotherapy. 

Many questions and concerns arise after being diagnosed with a benign tumor such as a meningioma, and our team is here for you. Please schedule an appointment with Dr. Mulholland to evaluate the diagnosis and discuss your treatment options.