Brain tumours and their treatments can cause a wide range of symptoms and side effects. These may be related to the tumour itself, swelling or pressure in the brain, or the impact of surgery, radiotherapy or medicines. Everyone’s experience is different, and symptoms can change over time.
Side effects may appear during treatment, improve afterwards, or develop later. Some are temporary, while others may need ongoing management. Understanding what to expect — and knowing when to seek help — is an important part of your care.
Common symptoms and side effects
Fatigue
A deep, persistent tiredness that isn’t relieved by rest. Gentle activity, pacing your day and prioritising sleep can help.
Headaches and swelling
Often caused by treatment or pressure in the brain. Steroids or other medicines may help reduce inflammation.
Seizures
These can occur if the tumour irritates brain tissue. Anti‑seizure medicines are used to prevent or control them.
Nausea or loss of appetite
Common during chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Anti‑nausea medicines and support from a dietitian can help maintain nutrition.
Hair loss and skin changes
Radiotherapy or chemotherapy may cause hair loss or skin sensitivity around the treatment area. These effects usually improve over time.
Cognitive or communication changes
Some people experience difficulties with memory, concentration or speech. Speech pathology and cognitive rehabilitation can support recovery.
Mood and emotional changes
Anxiety, depression, irritability or emotional swings can occur. Counselling, peer support and medication may help.
Ongoing management
Your care team will regularly check for side effects and complications through physical exams, imaging, and blood tests. Early reporting of new or worsening symptoms helps doctors adjust treatment or provide additional support.
Managing side effects is a shared effort between doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and you. Keeping a symptom diary, maintaining good nutrition, staying active where possible, and seeking support early can all improve comfort and quality of life during and after treatment.
Coping and emotional wellbeing
A diagnosis of brain cancer brings emotional, mental, and practical challenges for both patients and families. It’s common to experience a mix of shock, fear, sadness, anger, or disbelief, sometimes all at once. These feelings can come and go throughout treatment and recovery.
Everyone copes differently. Some people find strength in practical problem-solving, others in rest, reflection, faith, or connection with family and peers. There’s no right or wrong way to cope.
Emotional wellbeing is just as important as physical recovery and it is important to note that your care team can help provide support.
Dealing with uncertainty
Uncertainty is one of the hardest parts of living with brain cancer. Even after successful treatment, it’s natural to worry about whether the tumour might return or change. These thoughts may surface before follow-up scans or medical reviews (“scanxiety”) and can cause ongoing stress.
You can’t control the future, but you can control how you prepare and respond. Strategies that may help include:
- Focusing on what’s within your control, such as rest, activity, and staying connected
- Talking openly with your care team about what to expect and what signs to look out for
- Planning for follow-up appointments and asking questions so you understand the process
- Seeking support early if worry becomes overwhelming — professional counselling or peer support can make a real difference
If recurrence does occur, your team will help reassess and discuss the best approach based on your situation and goals.
Emotional recovery
Many people feel anxious before scans (“scanxiety”), fear recurrence, or struggle to reconnect with life outside hospital. These feelings are common and not a sign of weakness. Support groups, psychologists, or mindfulness-based programs can help you build resilience and confidence over time.
More Information
Visit our Support page for details on counselling, peer support, helplines and community services.