After being treated for a brain tumour, you may be offered physiotherapy, speech therapy or occupational therapy.

These therapies can speed up your recovery and help you cope with any problems caused by the tumour.

• An occupational therapist will recommend any equipment or alterations to your home that may help you carry out daily activities.
• A speech therapist will help you with any speech or swallowing problems.
• A physiotherapist will help you to use parts of the body that have been affected by the tumour.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has made recommendations on the standards of care that brain tumour patients should receive. For more information, read the Improving Outcomes guidelines. 

Epilepsy may affect some patients for up to six months after surgery. In rare cases epilepsy may continue for longer.

Getting back to normal

Driving and travelling

If you drive and have, or have had, a brain tumour, you must give up your licence and notify the DVLA. They will speak to your GP to determine when you can drive again.

With up-to-date scans and advice from your medical team, you may be allowed to drive again once an agreed period has passed and you have successfully completed a medical test to determine your ability to control a vehicle.

Flying is usually possible from three months after treatment.

Sports and activities

After you have been treated for a brain tumour, you must permanently avoid contact sports, such as rugby and boxing. You can start other activities again, with the agreement of your doctor, once you have recovered.

Swimming unsupervised is not recommended for around one year after treatment, as there is a risk that you could have an epileptic fit while in the water.

Sex

It is safe to have sex after treatment for a brain tumour. Women may be advised to carry on using contraception for up to a year after chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Your specialist will also discuss the implications of any medications needed.

Going back to work

You will become tired more easily following treatment for a brain tumour. You may wish to return to work and normal life as soon as possible, but it is a good idea to return part-time to begin with and only to go back full-time when you feel able to.

If you have experienced seizures, do not work with machinery or at heights.

Help and support

A brain tumour is often life-changing. You may feel angry, frightened and emotionally drained. Your doctor or specialist should be able to refer you to a social worker and counsellor for help with the practical and emotional aspects of your diagnosis.

Your recovery and the time it takes to get back to driving and working can depend on several factors, including: 

• the type of tumour you had
• the treatment you had
• your job

There are many organisations and helplines, such as Brain Tumour UK, that provide information and support.

Social support