A palliative care provider provides supportive therapy and care to patients with terminal illnesses or who are nearing the end of their lives. Palliative care aims to improve patient’s quality of life while also allowing them to be as active as possible in the time they have left.
Patients suffering from terminal or end-of-life conditions sometimes have complex and overlapping symptoms. Medical cannabis can provide effective treatment when patient comfort and pleasure are prioritised.
Are there any common conditions that require palliative care?
Palliative care can be provided to people of any age for a variety of diseases. Most of the time, this kind of care is given in a hospital or hospice, but some treatments can be given at home.
The following conditions may require palliative care:
- Terminal cancers
- Parkinson’s
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Leukemia and Lymphoma
- Kidney failure
- Congestive Heart Failure
- Alzheimer’s
Medical personnel, the patient, and next of kin always discuss palliative care openly.
Palliative care symptoms include what?
Because palliative care is related with a large range of illnesses, there is also a vast range of symptoms. However, there are several common signs that may indicate the need for palliative care. Patients may have the following symptoms depending on their condition:
- Loss of quality of life
- Weakness
- Memory loss
- Loss of mobility
- Loss of appetite
- Cognitive difficulties
- Chronic pain
- Anxiety and depression
The symptoms and duration of palliative care differ from person to person. Medical specialists can help people with unique histories because they can give more accurate timelines and symptoms.
What types of treatments are available as part of palliative care?
Patients and their families receive palliative care tailored to their specific needs. The following are some of the most popular treatment methods:
- Managing physical symptoms, such as chronic pain
- Social care, including help with things like washing, dressing, or eating
- Emotional, spiritual, and psychological support
- Emotional support for family and friends
- Domestic assistance when living at home, such as shopping for groceries, transport, and other household necessities
At CPGUK, we offer information and support about the possible treatment options and patients who are looking for specialist doctors. We can guide you through the medical cannabis treatment evidence in the UK, and the research by academics and advocates.
Read about how to get a prescription for cannabis medicines.