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What is Paliative Care?

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by Pattalux Taongam | july 10 |

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What is Palliative Care?

Palliative care is a specialized form of medical care focused on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress associated with serious illnesses. It aims to improve the quality of life for patients who are facing a life-limiting or incurable condition, regardless of their age or stage of illness.

The goal of palliative care is to address the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients and their families. It provides comprehensive support to manage symptoms such as pain, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath, as well as psychological distress, anxiety, and depression.

Do I need Paliative Treatment?
 

Here are some signs you may need Paliative care

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  1. Serious illness: Palliative care is often appropriate for individuals with serious, chronic, or life-threatening illnesses such as cancer, heart failure, kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and Alzheimer's disease, among others.

  2. Uncontrolled symptoms: If you are experiencing symptoms that are difficult to manage, such as severe pain, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, or anxiety, palliative care can help provide relief and improve your quality of life.

  3. Decline in functional status: If you are having difficulty performing daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, eating, or walking, palliative care can assist in addressing these challenges and enhancing your ability to function.

  4. Frequent hospitalizations: If you find yourself frequently admitted to the hospital due to complications or symptom exacerbation related to your illness, palliative care can help manage your symptoms and coordinate your care to reduce hospital visits.

  5. Emotional and psychological distress: Palliative care not only focuses on physical symptoms but also addresses emotional and psychological distress associated with serious illness. If you are experiencing significant anxiety, depression, or emotional distress, palliative care can provide support through counseling and other interventions.

  6. Complex decision-making: Palliative care specialists can help facilitate discussions about treatment options, advance care planning, and help you make informed decisions about your care based on your values and preferences.

How will patients who required palliative care be treated?
 

  1. Pain management: Controlling pain is a fundamental aspect of palliative care. Medications, including opioids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and adjuvant medications, may be prescribed to manage pain effectively.

  2. Symptom management: Palliative care addresses a range of symptoms such as nausea, shortness of breath, constipation, fatigue, and insomnia. Medications and other interventions, such as breathing exercises or relaxation techniques, may be employed to alleviate these symptoms.

  3. Emotional and psychological support: Palliative care teams provide emotional and psychological support to patients and their families. This may involve counseling, therapy, or support groups to help individuals cope with their feelings, fears, and anxieties.

  4. Social support: Palliative care often includes social workers who help patients and their families navigate financial, legal, and practical challenges. They can assist with accessing resources, making healthcare decisions, and coordinating care.

  5. Spiritual care: Addressing the spiritual needs of patients is an essential part of palliative care. Chaplains or spiritual counselors may be available to provide guidance, support, and help individuals find meaning and comfort in their beliefs.

  6. Nutritional support: Maintaining proper nutrition is crucial for overall well-being. Palliative care teams may include dietitians who can develop personalized dietary plans or recommend supplements to address specific nutritional needs.

  7. Physical therapy and rehabilitation: Depending on the individual's condition, physical therapy or rehabilitation services might be provided to maintain or improve mobility, strength, and function. These interventions can enhance independence and quality of life.

  8. Respite care: For caregivers, respite care offers temporary relief by providing trained personnel to care for the patient. This allows caregivers to take a break, attend to their own needs, and prevent burnout.

  9. Advance care planning: Palliative care teams assist patients in discussing and documenting their treatment preferences and end-of-life wishes. This process involves creating advance directives, such as living wills or do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders, to ensure patient autonomy and dignity.

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