Follow-up care involves regular medical checkups that include a review of a patient’s medical history, physical exam, and brain scans (usually MRIs).
In general, most patients with a brain tumor return to their doctor for follow-up appointments at least every 3-4 months during the first 2-3 years after treatment. After that, appointments will be once or twice a year. Talk to your health care provider about what your specific follow-up plan should be.
During follow-up visits, you should tell your doctor about:
- Any symptoms that you have that are new, worsening or bothersome to you
- Any physical problems that interfere with daily life or are bothersome, such as fatigue; difficulty with bladder, bowel, or sexual function; difficulty concentrating; memory changes; trouble sleeping; and weight gain or loss
- Any medicines, vitamins, or herbs you are taking and any other treatments you are using
- Any emotional problems you are experiencing, such as anxiety or depression
- Any changes in you or your family members medical history, including any new cancers
If you have any other symptoms or questions before your scheduled appointment, you should contact your health care team to discuss.
Source: National Cancer Institute
