At some point in our lives, we have to live with unimaginably difficult, serious illnesses, right? At such times, not only is the pain felt physically, but the mind also feels great pressure and sadness. This is a big challenge not only for you, but also for those who care for you, your family. Today, we are going to talk about a special care service that can provide you with strength, comfort, and relief at such times.
What is 'Palliative Care'?
Simply put, palliative care is a specialized form of care that provides symptom relief, comfort, and support to people living with a serious or chronic illness . It supports not only you, but also those who care for you and everyone affected by your illness. The main goal is to improve your quality of life.
Many people think of this as hospice care, which is provided at the end of life. But it is not. Palliative care is additional support that you receive in addition to the treatment you are already receiving. It focuses on your own unique care goals, aligned with your values. Unlike hospice care, palliative care can benefit anyone of any age, at any stage of a serious illness.
The word 'palliative' comes from the Latin word 'palliare', which means "to cover with a cloak." Think of it like a cloak that protects you from the damage caused by your illness, providing extra comfort and security. That's the support you get from palliative care.
Who needs this palliative care?
This is regardless of your age, prognosis, or whether you are receiving curative treatments. You can receive this care at any time.
Palliative care is available to people with a variety of medical conditions. Some of them include:
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- Alzheimer's disease
- Cancer
- Severe impacts of the COVID-19 situation
- Heart disease
- HIV and AIDS
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Lung diseases such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and Emphysema
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson's disease
- Stroke
What are the ways to get palliative care?
Depending on the resources available in your area, you may be able to receive palliative care in a variety of places:
- At a clinic: You can see a palliative care doctor at a clinic, just as you would see your family doctor.
- In a hospital: Even when you are hospitalized, palliative care doctors can visit you and help relieve your pain or other symptoms.
- At home: You also have the opportunity to receive one-on-one support from a healthcare worker, from the comfort of your own home.
- Assisted living facilities: Many nursing homes and assisted living facilities have health workers who can provide palliative care.
Who provides this palliative care?
Palliative care teams include doctors and other specialists who can help you manage your symptoms. They also help you deal with the added stress and responsibilities that come with a serious illness.
Your care team may include:
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Nurse practitioners with special training
- Physician assistants
- Social workers
- Spiritual advisors/chaplains who provide spiritual support according to your religious beliefs
What is the support like from palliative care?
Palliative care helps in many ways, in addition to your medical treatment. These may include:
- Relieving symptoms
- Education and advocacy
- Social support
- Spiritual support
Relieving symptoms
Palliative care can improve symptoms that affect your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The palliative care team can provide direct care, or they can teach you ways you can use on a daily basis to stay well.
Palliative care can help with symptoms like:
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Pain or discomfort in the body
- Shortness of breath
- Stress
- Trouble sleeping
Your palliative care team can help relieve symptoms in ways like these:
- Breathing exercises
- Cognitive exercises
- Exercise guidance
- Prescribing medication
- Relaxation exercises
- Tips for improving sleep
If you need additional care, palliative care providers can also refer you to specialists.
Education and Advocacy
Your palliative care team can do the following:
- Please explain your medical condition to yourself.
- Help you decide what kind of treatment you want.
- Tell you how your condition will affect you in the future.
The more informed you are, the better able you are to make care decisions that are right for you. This team also helps you communicate your values, goals, and preferences to your other doctors. Then, you can get the care you want.
Social support
Palliative care specialists know that your illness can affect those closest to you, so they support not only you, but also those around you.
Your palliative care team can do the following:
- Connect yourself with support groups and community resources.
- Help your family communicate, or refer them for family counseling.
- Support your friends and family in dealing with the stress they are feeling because of your illness.
Imagine how worried and in pain our neighbor, Uncle Nimal, was when he found out he had cancer. His family was also very sad. While the doctors were treating him for cancer, they started palliative care for Uncle Nimal. They helped him manage his pain, help him sleep well at night, and help him eat. Not only that, but the care team helped him reduce his fears and anxieties, and help him talk to his family about how to cope with this difficult time. Within a few days, a smile appeared on Uncle Nimal's face, and it was a great relief for his family to see him getting better.
Spiritual support
Depending on your beliefs and wishes, palliative care may also include spiritual care. Regular meetings with a clergy member, religious leader, or other spiritual advisor can help you understand how your illness is affecting your life.
When should palliative care begin?
There is no set time frame for when someone should receive palliative care. Many people choose palliative care as soon as they receive a serious diagnosis. Getting care early can help you plan for the future.
Talk to your doctor about whether palliative care is recommended for you.
How long can palliative care be provided?
You can see a palliative care specialist for as long as you find it helpful. There is no limit to the number of times you can see one.
What are the benefits of palliative care?
Palliative care empowers you to make good care decisions that positively impact your life. It can also improve healthcare-related outcomes. Research has shown that palliative care is associated with:
- Improved patient and caregiver satisfaction
- Improved quality of life
- Less anxiety and depression
- Longer life expectancy - in some cases
What are the disadvantages or misconceptions of palliative care?
The biggest disadvantage of palliative care is that many people do not fully understand its purpose. Some people are hesitant to start this type of care because they think it is only for those who are nearing the end of their lives.
But palliative care doesn't mean you're going to die. It's for anyone who has a chronic illness that interferes with their quality of life.
How do I get palliative care?
To get palliative care, you will need a referral from your doctor. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend it. If not, don't be afraid to bring up the topic. Say you'd like to learn more about palliative care, ask if you're a good fit for it, and what resources are available.
Living with a serious illness can affect your mind, body, relationships – and many other aspects of your life. These demands can be overwhelming. Palliative care is about reducing the many burdens that come with a serious illness. If you want to learn more about palliative care available to you or a loved one, talk to your doctor. You may also find resources that can provide the comfort and support you need to live your life to the fullest.
The most important thing to keep in mind (Take-Home Message)
We know that dealing with a serious illness is not easy. But you are not alone. Palliative care is an extra resource that can help you and your family through this difficult time. It can help you reduce your pain and discomfort, give you peace of mind, and help you live a happier life.
Remember, this is not something that is only offered at the end of life. You can get this service from the very beginning of your diagnosis. So, if you or someone you know feels like you need this kind of help, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor. This will be a great help to make your life a little more relaxed and healthy!
` Palliative Care, Palliative Care, Critical Illness, Chronic Illness, Quality of Life, Symptom Relief, Pain Management
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