Think It’s Just Stress? Know the Surprising Signs of Glioma

Life moves fast, and we’re all juggling responsibilities — work, school, social media, and self-care. With so much on our plates, it’s easy to overlook aspects of our health that aren’t immediately visible, like the well-being of our brain. One condition worth understanding is glioma, a type of brain tumour that can affect individuals of all ages, including younger adults. While the idea may seem daunting, being informed about its symptoms, causes, and risk factors can help you feel more in control of your health. Let’s take a closer look at what glioma is, how it presents itself, and how you can stay proactive — empowering you to navigate life with confidence.

What is glioma?

Glioma is a type of tumour that develops in glial cells, which play a key role in supporting and maintaining nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These tumours can vary widely in terms of severity, with some being slow-growing and others, like glioblastomas, being aggressive and difficult to treat. While the thought of brain tumours can sound scary, understanding the basics — like how gliomas form and what causes them — can help demystify the condition. In India, the annual incidence of primary malignant brain tumours is approximately 3.7 per 100,000 in males and 2.6 per 100,000 in females, highlighting the importance of awareness and early detection.

What are the different types of gliomas?

Based on the type of glial cells in which they originate, gliomas are categorised. Here's a quick breakdown:

Astrocytomas

Astrocytomas are the most common type of glioma, originating in astrocytes — star-shaped cells that support and nourish brain cells. These tumours are categorised into grades based on how fast they grow and their potential to spread. Low-grade astrocytomas grow slowly and may cause mild symptoms, while high-grade astrocytomas are more aggressive, growing rapidly and often spreading to nearby brain tissue. High-grade tumours can severely affect brain function and typically require more intensive treatments.

Oligodendrogliomas

These tumours develop from oligodendrocytes, the cells responsible for creating the protective covering around nerve fibres. These tumours tend to grow more slowly and may be easier to treat.

Ependymomas

Ependymomas originate from ependymal cells, which line the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord. These cells play an important role in producing and circulating cerebrospinal fluid. Although less common than other gliomas, ependymomas can still pose significant health challenges.

Glioblastomas

Glioblastomas are the most aggressive form of glioma, often growing rapidly and invading surrounding brain tissue. They are difficult to treat and have a poorer prognosis.

 What causes glioma?

The exact cause of glioma is still largely unknown, but there are some known risk factors that may elevate the likelihood of developing this condition. As we become more aware of our lifestyle choices and their impact on our health, understanding these risk factors is crucial:

• Genetic mutations:

  Some people are more prone to developing gliomas due to genetic mutations, such as those in the TP53 gene, which can cause abnormal cell growth.

• Radiation exposure:

  A history of radiation therapy, particularly to the head, can increase the risk of gliomas later in life. This is something to be mindful of, especially for those who have undergone radiation treatment for childhood cancers.

• Age and gender:

  Gliomas can occur in people of all ages, but they are more commonly diagnosed in older adults. That said, younger individuals, including those in their 20s and 30s, can also develop gliomas, with glioblastomas being one of the common types in younger adults.

• Family history:

  A family history of gliomas or other brain tumours may increase your risk, suggesting that some genetic factors play a role in the development of gliomas.

What are the symptoms of glioma?

The symptoms of glioma can be subtle and often get mistaken for everyday stress or fatigue, especially by younger adults juggling multiple responsibilities. However, recognising the symptoms early can make a huge difference in diagnosis and treatment. Here are some of the most common symptoms to watch out for:

• Persistent headaches
  While everyone experiences headaches, glioma-related headaches are often persistent and can worsen over time, especially in the morning.

• Seizures
  Seizures are a common symptom of gliomas, even in people without a history of epilepsy. If you suddenly experience a seizure, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.

• Cognitive decline
  Struggling with memory, concentration, or brain fog can be signs of glioma. Many younger people deal with stress-induced forgetfulness, but if cognitive issues persist, they should be taken seriously.

• Vision problems
  If the glioma is near the optic nerve, it can cause blurred or double vision, making it harder to focus on tasks, especially those involving screens or reading.

• Weakness or numbness
  Weakness or numbness on one side of the body can indicate that the glioma is affecting motor function, making it harder to engage in physical activities or even use your phone or type messages.

• Speech and language difficulties

Trouble finding the right words or understanding speech could point to a glioma affecting the parts of the brain responsible for communication.

• Balance issues

A glioma in the cerebellum may cause problems with coordination, making it difficult to balance or perform tasks that require fine motor skills.

Can gliomas be prevented?

Although there’s no guaranteed way to prevent glioma, there are steps you can take to minimise your risk and maintain good brain health. For younger generations living in a health-conscious, fast-paced world, it’s important to stay proactive:

• Limit radiation exposure: While radiation is sometimes necessary for treatment, unnecessary exposure — like frequent radiation therapy to the head — may elevate the risk of glioma. This could occur in cases where individuals undergo multiple imaging tests or treatments involving radiation, always check with your doctor for the best and safest course of action.

• Healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, staying active, and managing stress are all essential for overall brain health. Practices like yoga, mindfulness, and regular exercise can help maintain cognitive function and reduce stress.

• Genetic awareness: If glioma or other cancers run in your family, consider genetic counselling. Understanding your genetic predisposition can help you make informed decisions about health screening and preventative care.

Staying informed: Empowering your brain health

Glioma may sound like an intimidating diagnosis, but with the right information and early detection, the impact on your life can be minimised. For today’s younger generations, being proactive about brain health, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed about potential symptoms are key to staying ahead of any health challenges. By knowing the signs of glioma and understanding its causes, you’re empowered to take control of your health and live your best life — confident, aware, and ready for whatever comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

 What are the complications of glioma?  

Gliomas can cause cognitive decline, paralysis, and loss of speech or motor functions. The challenges vary depending on the tumour's location and severity.

 How common are gliomas?  

Gliomas are rare but account for a significant portion of all brain tumours. Glioblastomas, the most aggressive form, are the most common type of malignant glioma.

 What is the root cause of glioma? 

The precise cause remains unclear, but genetic mutations and exposure to radiation are believed to contribute to glioma development.

 Is glioma painful?

The symptoms of glioma, including headaches, seizures, and neurological issues, can cause discomfort.

 What are the challenges of living with glioma?  

Challenges include cognitive difficulties, physical impairments, and emotional strain from ongoing treatment. This can impact daily life, work, and relationships.

How does glioma affect quality of life?  

Glioma can significantly affect quality of life by impairing cognitive function, causing physical disabilities, and requiring intensive treatment. For younger adults, these impacts can be especially challenging as they balance work, education, and personal life.