Hi Palace,
Melnda is correct. Basically, the process is:
Once CK is performed (or any other forms of radio-surgery), the tumor does go through a swelling process before it implodes/experiences necrosis (DNA tumor death). Due to the swelling, there is some pressure on the hearing/balance nerve, which is expected. Close monitoring via MRI is used to keep an eye on the swelling process. Antiinflammatories may be prescribed (such as Decadron or even OTC ibuprofen). This will help to keep the swelling in check for a short time. As the swelling diminishes, many of the symptoms may disappear or allieviate as well.ÂÂ
Now, possibly around the 6-9 months post-treatment timeframe, the swelling may reoccur (not unusual), thus, many dr's prescribe ibuprofen (or a short term course of Decadron) to help ease the swelling.
Now 6 month post treatment, I can share that, for me, many of my pre-treatment symptoms are now either diminished or gone completely. My balance is still a wee bit off (but, I have a brain stem complication called Chiari 1 Malformation that may be contributing to he balance issue). I can tell you my facial numbness is just about gone, my tinnitus has eased VERY much and only flares when I'm really, really tired or in a very loud setting (ie: noisy restaurant, etc).ÂÂ
Please know, even as you note, that many of the pre-treatment symptoms may alleviate and/or disappear. Like you, I was nervous about all of these things I had heard prior to my treatment. I do believe that many radio-surgery patients here will tell you that, to experience these post-treatment symptoms really are short term and if we can handle it for the short term, knowing that the long term result is tumor death, then heck, I'll deal with it short term.ÂÂ
It really does get easy .... we're here to support you in all aspects as you prep for this treatment... and after treatment. Just try to take a deep breath and know that we are all here for you to go through each step... just as everyone was here for me (and others) as we went through the process.
You're gonna be fine... truly!
Phyl