Palliative care is specialized medical care focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family.

A specially-trained team of doctors, nurses and other specialists work together with a patient’s cancer specialists to provide an extra layer of support. It is appropriate at any age and at any stage in a cancer-related illness, and can be provided along with curative treatment.

Palliative care addresses symptoms such as:

• Pain
• Depression
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty sleeping
• Anxiety
• Family problems
• Other symptoms that may be causing distress

The team will also spend time listening to you to make sure you understand all of your treatment options and choices. They will help you match your goals with your options. They will communicate with your doctors so they know and understand what you want. This gives you more control over your care and provides a better quality of life for you and your family.

Ask your cancer doctor if the Upstate Palliative Care Program can help you.