Compassion is an integral component of palliative care

Various medical and therapeutic treatments are designed to promote health and well-being. Many of these therapies attempt to remove illness or address sickness. But at some point in their lives, people may receive a different form of care known as palliative care.

Palliative care, according to Get Palliative Care, is based on the needs of the patient and not the patient's prognosis. Unlike curative treatments that aim to eliminate illness, palliative care is centered on improving quality of life for patients and their families by addressing physical, emotional and psychological needs. Palliative care focuses on comfort, care and quality of life for those with serious illness. It is designed to improve life for people of any age who need it, not just older adults. The National Institute on Aging says palliative care is interdisciplinary, which means it involves a variety of doctors and care providers who work together with patients and families to address individual goals and values.

Palliative care prioritizes comfort and support, aiming to alleviate pain, manage symptoms and offer holistic care that encompasses the whole person. Some of the hallmarks of palliative care are relief from pain and other symptoms of a serious illness. It also may help a person cope with side effects of medical treatments. Palliative care may be recommended whether a condition can be cured or not. It is performed alongside other treatments a person may be receiving, says the Mayo Clinic.

Patients with serious illnesses often experience pain, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Palliative care specialists utilize strategies and medications to alleviate these symptoms, ensuring that patients remain as comfortable as possible. Some of the conditions for which palliative care can be effective include:

· Cancer

· Heart disease

· Blood and bone marrow disorders

· Dementia

· Cystic fibrosis

· Kidney failure

· Lung disease

· Liver disease

· Stroke

According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, patients with serious illnesses who received palliative care lived longer than those who did not receive this care. By focusing on relief and support, palliative care helps individuals and their families confront challenging times.

Those who would like to inquire about palliative care for themselves or a loved one can search the Palliative Care Provider Directory to find options nearby. A conversation with one's doctor also can point patients in the direction of palliative care.