Palliative Care

By: Joseph Devine

When you have been diagnosed with a major illness, you will likely find yourself undergoing more than one kind of treatment. First, of course, there are the drugs and procedures that will target the illness itself, with the goal of either curing or at least reducing it. Many patients with cancer or other severe illnesses also need another form of treatment called palliative care.

This kind of medicine is not centered on the goal of curing illness. Instead, its entire purpose is to reduce symptoms called by health conditions, as well as the side effects of medications. Patients in hospice care only receive palliative treatment - they are no longer trying to cure their conditions - but they are not its only recipients. Many patients receive it in addition to their primary medicine.

Targeted Symptoms

Lung cancer patients often suffer from many painful symptoms, in addition to the rough side effects of chemotherapy or radiation. Fortunately, doctors have many different techniques for reducing these painful issues. Some of the symptoms they target, and their common solutions, include:

Pain: Pain is one of the most persistent problems for cancer patients. It can be caused directly by the disease, or by attempts to cure it. There are a variety of pharmaceutical products that can effectively treat pain, although many of them have mild side effects of their own. Some patients supplement painkilling drugs - or even replace them - with alternate methods. These can include meditation, herbal remedies, or acupuncture.

Dyspnea: This is a persistent shortness of breath or other breathing difficulty. Many mesothelioma patients have recurring problems with it. Its treatment will depend on its exact cause - for example, fluid buildup or damage to the lungs. Some patients need supplemental oxygen, while others can address the problem with breathing and relaxation exercises.

Dry mouth: People who are undergoing chemo or radiotherapy often suffer from a persistent lack of saliva called dry mouth. This can be a very uncomfortable condition that makes it difficult to eat and speak. There are many over-the-counter products that may ease this symptom, including chewing gum and mouthwash. Many patients also carry water bottles with them as often as possible.

Nausea: Severe stomach upset and vomiting can become very worrisome, especially if they lead to malnutrition or dehydration. Unfortunately, many people with serious diseases suffer from this problem. There are prescription drugs called anti-emetics that may help, as well as soothing drinks and herbs.

If you or a loved one is suffering, do not be afraid to ask your doctor for extra help. Effective treatments are available, but only if you report the problem.

To learn more about coping with chest or lung cancer, contact the Mesothelioma Resource Center