Watching a Meningioma Brain Tumor

I was diagnosed last Sept with a 2 cm meningioma and on the wait and watch path. It was a scary plan at first but I went and got two more opinions. One more neurosurgeon and one neurologist. Basically they said the same thing that many people have them and don’t ever know. My tumor is just left of center against the main center vein about two inches from the front. The risk of surgery out weighs the risk of wait and watch. Meanwhile no serious symptoms. I get how stressful it can be having something in your head that doesn’t belong. I have done some of my own research and trust what the doctors are saying. I have my moments like tonight where it comes to mind and I can’t sleep but most of the time I just live my life like it’s not there. My third MRI is this May. I hope you gain some peace about it. This blog helps and so does my faith. Thoughts and prayers.

When I first heard I had a brain tumor, I thought I was the only one. I've learned, meningioma's are very common. Some grow, some don't. Mine unfortunately was pushing against my brainstem and had to be removed. Not all was removed so I continue to have MRI's. I can say I'm no longer claustrophobic!

It’s very helpful reading all your responses to a mengioma diagnosis. I am 60 years old and just found out about my own diagnosis after suffering a concussion. The doctor recommended CT scan at which time they discovered the meningioma. The doctor recommended an MRI to see the exact size and location so I’m waiting to proceed with that. I’m fairly certain I will have a “watch and wait” approach and I think I’m fine with that.

Welcome to Connect, @twomama. I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis, and so glad that you've joined this group. While we wait for others to join in, here's some information from Mayo Clinic which you might wish to read: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/meningioma/symptoms-causes/syc-20355643

@twomama, would you be able to share a few more details? How did the concussion occur?

thanks this gives me a calmer outlook because I was diagnosed with one about a month ago and it is located behind my right ear they want to do surgery in a couple weeks thanks for your feedback.

First, be thankful that it has been found early. It is a benign tumor. I was not as fortunate. I had a nasty fall and hit my head. I went to the ER to be checked out because I hit a heavy cabinet with my face. Xrays showed the large tumor and I was quickly referred to a surgeon. I was told that if I had waited much longer I would have had a stroke that would have left me in a very bad state. Surgery was scheduled and the tumor and most of the tendrils attached to it were removed. Some of the tendrils were in places that would have been dangerous to remove. I have titanium rods in my skull now. The surgery was in 2009 and since that time I have had increasing loss of long and short term memory. Last year, after many tests, I learned that I have mild cognitive impairment because the tumor was near and affected my frontal lobe area. I will never be able to recover my memory. I basically lost my executive functions for organization, multi-tasking, etc. I am 63 years old and unable to be gainfully employed because I can't retain what is needed to do the job. I also have another tumor in the top front of the brain that is on the wait and see plan. The surgeon says that should it start to grow, lasers can be used to remove it before it gets big.

Anyone ever try accupuncture for treatment of their meningioma? I am on "watch and wait" and would like to avoid syrgery! I'm 67 years old. I have slight headaches and dizziness. I have ringing in my ears that comes and goes. Worry seems to increase my symptoms. Golfing always helps! Thanks for all of ypur posts. Knowledge is power.

Ringing ears is a symptom?

Hello @ees1

Here is a link to an article about signs and symptoms of meningioma. Please click on the link to read all of the signs and symptoms.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/meningioma/symptoms-causes/syc-20355643
As you can see, ringing in the ear and loss of hearing are two of many symptoms.

Good morning. I am looking for your help to find a support group that meets in my local area of Cocoa Beach, Florida. I am the caregiver to my husband who was diagnosed with a malignant GIST (stomach tumor) nearly three years ago. Three weeks ago we learned he has a meningistioma measuring 5x5x3cm that needs to be removed with surgery. I am struggling with this latest diagnosis and think I would benefit from group support. Thank you.