My doctor stated that a meningioma is nothing to worry about and doesn’t need to be removed. I have periodic unsteady gait and many dizzy spells. Has anyone else been told this? Episode on 3-23-09 showed removal of same type of meningioma that I have so I’m confused as to why I’m told not to worry. Hearing you have a brain tumor causes plenty of worry, benign or not. Just knowing it’s there is scary.

I see that you posted this a while ago, but my father was recently diagnosed with a meningioma and wanted to respond.  The unsteady gait and dizzy spells sound very familiar to what my father went through.  He had very limited lateral movement on his right side when they discovered the tumor.  The doctors discovered it during an MRI and told him he was not allowed to leave the hospital and admitted him to the emergency room.  Within about 5 days of the initial MRI he went in for surgery.  My intent is not to scare you, but if you’re having these symptoms I find it hard to believe your doctor said no to surgery.  My father had immediate relief of his symptoms and is thankfully still doing very well about two months after his surgery.  (The tumor ended up being the size of half a baseball!)  I’m not a doctor, but if you haven’t already, I would suggest at least getting a second opinion.  You can never be too careful with your health. 

thank you so much for your information. I’m told my meningioma is only the size of a thumbnail. My dizzy spells are off and on, with 1-2 month periods in between. I have episodes where I think the dizziness will begin, but it subsides. When they do start, it’s like having vertigo, but I’m told I do not have vertigo. I have no symptoms other than when I am dizzy, it will last about 8 weeks with headaches as well. Anyway, I have avoided seeing another doctor, but I know that I should get that second opinion. I was even told that the MRI showed I suffered a stroke probably during my sleep that the doctor is not worried about either. Said if no side effects are visible, I should not worry. I do have High Blood pressure and high Cholesterol. So, based on your reply and the opinion of others, I will quit delaying this and set one up. FYI-even nurses from my other doctor visits have told me to do so. again, thank you so much for your reply.

I’m glad that sharing my experience was helpful to you!  It definitely sounds like your symptoms are not as progressed as my father.  We found out after he had his surgery that while he was driving (and his job required a lot of driving) he could go from gas to breaks OK, but that in order to move his leg/foot back to the gas peddle he had to physically pick up his leg and put it on the gas!  He is so stubborn!  I wish you well and would love to know how you make out.  :)

I thank you again and will post a follow up when I do see the next doctor. I wish your father the very best and will say a prayer for him as well. It’s been a pleasure corresponding with someone out there who is willing to listen and provide your type of positive feedback.

Thank you for the prayers…I will do the same for you.  I’m glad to correspond anytime!