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Palliative care is a specialized approach to healthcare that focuses on improving the quality of life for people with serious illnesses. It is an interdisciplinary field that aims to provide relief from pain and other symptoms, address emotional and spiritual needs, and offer support to the patient and their family. Palliative care is often associated with end-of-life care, but it is much more than that. In this article, we will debunk some myths about palliative care and explore how it can help people in your area.
Myths about palliative care
There are several myths about palliative care that can prevent people from accessing the care they need. Let’s take a closer look at some of these myths:
Palliative care is only for end-of-life care
One of the biggest myths about palliative care is that it is only for people who are nearing the end of their lives. While palliative care can provide support for people in the final stages of life, it is also appropriate for people with serious illnesses at any stage of their illness. Palliative care can be provided alongside curative treatments and can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Palliative care means giving up hope
Another myth about palliative care is that it means giving up hope. This is not true. Palliative care can provide hope in many ways, such as helping to manage symptoms, improving quality of life, and offering emotional and spiritual support. Palliative care can also provide support for patients and their families to make difficult decisions and plan for the future.
Palliative care is the same as hospice care
While palliative care and hospice care share some similarities, they are not the same. Palliative care is focused on providing relief from pain and other symptoms, while hospice care is a type of palliative care that is specifically for people who are nearing the end of their lives. Hospice care is typically provided when curative treatments are no longer effective.
Palliative care is only for cancer patients
Another myth about palliative care is that it is only for people with cancer. While palliative care can be helpful for people with cancer, it is also appropriate for people with other serious illnesses such as heart disease, lung disease, and neurological disorders.
How palliative care can help
Now that we’ve debunked some of the myths about palliative care, let’s explore how it can help:
Pain management: Palliative care can help manage pain and other symptoms associated with serious illnesses. It uses a range of medications and treatments to manage pain, including opioids, nerve blocks, and other interventions.
Symptom management: Palliative care can help manage symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, and constipation.
Emotional support: Palliative care can provide emotional support to patients and their families. It can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of serious illness.
Improved quality of life: Palliative care can improve the overall quality of life for patients. It can help patients maintain their independence, dignity, and sense of control over their lives.
At Charter Healthcare, our palliative care specialists are here to help.
We are proud to offer:
Salt Lake City palliative care
Tucson palliative care
as only a few of our practicing locations.