Meningioma: Anyone else? I'm frightened

@hiktyd
How are you doing post surgery? Or did you have radiation? How was the experience?

I have one which caused hydracephelus which was operated on to let brain fluid return to cleanse the brain. My ventricles were enlargened as a result. I sill have that tumor and now indications of another. I have been seeing an ongologist and have MRI's about every 3 to 6 months for them to stay on top of it. Fingers crossed and good luck to all!

My meningioma is odd shaped 1.5x1.8cm. Having issues lately and now there is fluid around it where there wasn't before. Have neurosurgeon appointment tomorrow at Vanderbilt to determine next steps

@krinlynn welcome to the group and best wishes and sending prayers your way.

I have a small meningioma left frontal lobe. Diagnosed almost 3 years ago. Just had appt about my recent mri. Said grew minimally in the last year. Felt good about that. I wrote down a page full of things that I’m feeling. She said mine is too small to cause ANY of the issues. I’m 69. The white matter increased also, she said: just aging. I feel good knowing it hadn’t grown, BUT googling for so long, my symptoms are listed as symptoms of a meningioma. She said she’s a neurosurgeon and I should see a neurologist. I’ve had many symptoms for years, with no help of why. Aging? She also said there was no blood test to diagnose Alzheimer’s and the only way you can prove is an autopsy. I give up.

@piperleah I also have a meningioma. After my first visit with a neurosurgeon he recommended I get a second opinion. I did just that, actually got 2 more. And I am happy I did. The additional consults helped me to fully understand my particular tumor. And the differing perspectives helped to find a path forward that felt right for me. I wish you the best!

@piperleah Just adding to my earlier reply, I also met with a neurologist and that was very helpful also!

@piperleah: You have composed such a well written post I would not worry about Alzheimer's. So the neurosurgeon is adamant the symptoms aren't from your meningioma. Put her opinion aside and see a neurologist. Neurosurgeons focus on brain tumors and surgery and a neurologist deals with all kinds of maladies of the brain. I think your neurosurgeon is thinking you have something else going on not in her wheel house to treat. (She may very well be wrong.) It's always good to get a second opinion. Maybe the neurologist will even suggest getting a third opinion from a different neurosurgeon.

@piperleah
Don’t give up. I don’t think you have the big A. You are to competent. If you can manage it, go to a University teaching hospital. Doctors there are the most up to date people in their field. Sending hugs, blessings and hopes you will keep us informed. (I am at the watch and wait stage with my
meningioma. It’s a struggle, I understand.) Dolly

Thank you so much for your kind words. It’s not easy to not think about it, but I think I’ve done a pretty good job lately. I was in a downward spiral with health and family issues when I was first diagnosed. That sent me plunging. Had a test done, said I had mild cognitive decline. My family was not worrying, as my husband told them there was nothing to worry about. Wth. It’s not that I want anyone to worry about me, but I certainly want them to know about it, and why I may act this way or that. Good luck with yours!