Brain tumour and aggressive behaviour

My sibling was diagnosed with a grade 4 gloiblastoma, which is inoperable. She is getting progressively worse. The most upsettjng symptom is her aggression. It upsets everyone near her although we know it's the tumour. We miss her personality. How do we deal with this on a daily basis? Is there anything than can help? Some of the stuff she says when she's aggressive make us anxious in case we dont do everything we can for her. Any advice by experienced nurses would be appreciated.

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about this situation, this must be a very tough time for you all.

    As you know having a brain tumour can cause big changes in someone’s behaviour, including anger and aggression and this can be very painful to witness.

    Doctors can sometimes reduce these symptoms with medicines, such as steroids to reduce swelling, or medicines for agitation and anxiety.

    Being in an environment with loud noises, or lots of people, or given too much information can make aggression worse. So trying to Keep things calm, quiet, and simple can sometimes help.

    Take breaks to look after yourself, and ask her care team or palliative team for extra support. Macmillan Cancer Support have information on looking after yourself and how to access support. And please remember that you’re doing your best in a very difficult situation.

    The Brain Tumour Society has information on managing personality changes that may be useful.

    I’m not sure if your sister is being supported by a palliative care team, often they are known as Macmillan nurses. They are experts in controlling cancer symptoms and can provide emotional support to you all. If she doesn't have a palliative care team involved in her care, she could ask her GP or hospital team to refer her.

    I hope this is of some help at this difficult time. Give us a ring if you want to talk things over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene