What to Know About the Last Days of Glioblastoma

Brain tumour effects can alter alertness, memory, communication, balance, and swallowing. A person may sleep for long periods, respond only briefly, become confused, or stop showing interest in food and drink. Breathing can become uneven, with pauses or changes in sound. Hands and feet may feel cooler as the body slows down. These changes can be distressing to witness, but they do not always mean the person is in pain.

Pain, restlessness, nausea, seizures, breathlessness, or anxiety can still occur and should be reported. The treating team can assess symptoms and explain whether a change is expected, caused by medication, or needs urgent treatment.

Keep the room calm, speak gently, and identify yourself even when the person does not answer. Offer small sips or mouth care only if the person is awake and can swallow safely; never force food, drink, or tablets. Repositioning, lip balm, soft music, and familiar voices may help. Ask the oncology or palliative-care team about a medication plan for pain, agitation, secretions, nausea, and seizures, including what to do if swallowing becomes difficult.

If home care is planned, keep the team’s phone number and written instructions nearby. Ask who to call at night, which medicines to give, and what to do after death. Palliative care can support the patient and family while treatment decisions are being reviewed.

Call the treating team urgently for a seizure, new severe pain, repeated vomiting, choking, marked agitation, or breathing that appears difficult. Call emergency services if the person is unresponsive and this is unexpected, has a prolonged or repeated seizure, or cannot breathe. If the person is already receiving end-of-life care and a written plan says to call the palliative team, follow that plan while keeping the person safe and comfortable.

Ask what changes are most likely for this person, how comfort medicines should be given if swallowing stops, and whether a palliative-care or hospice service can visit. Confirm the after-hours contact, seizure instructions, preferred place of care, and whom to notify if the person dies. Discuss whether radiotherapy, brain tumour surgery, chemotherapy, or a clinical trial still fits the person’s goals and current condition.