Brain Metastasis

What is it?

Brain metastasis refers to cancer cells that have spread from another part of the body to the brain. It is the most common type of brain tumor, typically originating from cancers such as lung, breast, or melanoma.

What are the symptoms?

Headaches (often worse in the morning)
Seizures
Nausea and vomiting
Changes in vision or speech
Weakness or numbness in one part of the body
Personality or cognitive changes

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Primary brain tumors
Stroke
Infection (e.g., abscess)
Multiple sclerosis

What are the aggravating factors?

A history of cancer, particularly lung, breast, or melanoma
Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., due to chemotherapy)
Brain radiation or surgery

What types of food are helpful?

Antioxidant-rich foods: Berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables help combat oxidative stress.
Anti-inflammatory foods: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts can help reduce inflammation.
Lean protein: Helps support tissue repair and immune function, found in chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes.

Sample Recipe: Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients: Quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, spinach, olive oil, lemon.
Directions: Toss cooked quinoa with roasted vegetables and spinach for an antioxidant-packed, anti-inflammatory meal.

What are the traditional treatments?

Surgical removal: For accessible brain metastases.
Radiation therapy: To shrink tumors and relieve symptoms.
Chemotherapy or targeted therapy: Depending on the type of cancer that has metastasized to the brain.
Steroids: To reduce brain swelling and inflammation.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
Green tea: Known for its antioxidant properties, may help reduce oxidative damage in brain cells.
Ginseng: Studies suggest that ginseng may help boost immune function and fight cancer cells, though more research is needed.