End of life issues

In certain instances, when the cancer can no longer be controlled with available therapies or when patients can no longer tolerate treatments, doctors turn their focus to making the patient comfortable. This is called palliative care. The patient receives medications and treatments to control pain and other symptoms, such as constipation, nausea, and shortness of breath. Some patients remain at home during this time, while others enter a hospital or other facility. Either way, services are available to help patients and their families with the medical, psychological, and spiritual issues surrounding dying. A hospice often provides such services.

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The time at the end of life is different for each person. Each individual has unique needs for information and support. The patient's and family's questions and concerns about the end of life should be discussed with the healthcare team as they arise.