Have you (or someone close to you) recently been diagnosed with a serious illness? Then your doctor may already have discussed your options with you. Palliative care is one go-to option for relief from the discomfort and distress of your condition. With the help of a team of specialists, you can find the kind of support that can ease your pain and suffering.
Palliative care can be given alongside curative treatment as early as post-diagnosis. In making this decision, you are allowing trained practitioners to assist you in finding relief from your symptoms. They can help with your emotional needs and even with making medical decisions.
Once you decide that palliative care services are best for you, search for providers near your Indiana home or your own locale, for greater convenience for you and your family.
Here are some of the questions you may have about the service:
What’s the difference between hospice and palliative care?
Many get confused between hospice and palliative care. While both options provide comfort, the two begin at different stages. A person diagnosed with a terminal illness who can no longer improve from treatment usually requires hospice care to make them comfortable in their end-of-life stages. Palliative care, on the other hand, can start right after diagnosis and can be administered simultaneously with curative treatment. This is to help the person with a life-threatening illness manage their pain and distress while they seek curative treatment.
Who provides palliative care and where?
Patients can often decide where they wish to receive palliative care. You can opt to receive this at an outpatient clinic, in your preferred hospital, or in the comfort of your own home from a specialized team of palliative care nurses, doctors, and other specialists. Of course, they will need to work closely with your attending doctors. This is to make sure you get the appropriate support alongside your treatment plan.
Who qualifies to receive palliative care?
People with grave illnesses are the usual candidates for palliative care. More often than not, patients with cancer, liver failure, lung disease, congestive heart failure, COPD, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease can receive palliative care. You can expect a team of professionals to work with you to providing supportive care in your preferred setting.
Is Palliative care only for the patient?
Many think that palliative care is only meant for the patient. But in reality, and if the family members are willing, this type of care can also provide support to your loved ones. The main goal of this specialty care is not only to help you find relief, but also to enhance your overall quality of life—and that includes your loved ones.
Your illness affects your family, and they too can feel the stresses of your condition. With palliative care, they will learn how to cope and better understand your situation. This allows them to be more supportive of you during this difficult time in your life.
Knowing you have a serious medical condition is a stressful and challenging time for you and those who love you. The good news is there are professional services to help you experience the relief and support you need. With the help of palliative care, you can start improving your quality of life. You can find it easier to manage your symptoms and lessen the distress that you and your loved ones must deal with.
