Brain Metastases

Overview

Brain metastases are a type of metastatic cancer. They occur when a malignant tumor in one part of your body spreads to your brain. The original tumor is called the primary tumor/cancer. Most brain metastases spread from primary cancers in your lungs, breasts or skin (specifically melanoma).

Once the cancer cells reach your brain, they form one or more new tumors. The impact the tumors have on your body depends on where the primary cancer ended up when it traveled to your brain.

How common are brain metastases?

Brain metastases are the most common brain tumor in adults. Experts estimate that 10% to 30% of people with cancer that starts outside of the brain will develop a metastatic brain tumor at some point. The chances of getting diagnosed increase after age 45, with most people diagnosed when they’re over 65.

Primary brain cancer, or cancer that starts in your brain, is much less common. Most tumors that start in or on your brain are benign (noncancerous).

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

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