Palliative treatment can give comfort and relief to people facing serious illnesses. It’s not focused on curing, but instead on managing symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life. These treatments may include medication, therapies, or emotional support to help patients feel more at ease. Whether a person is dealing with chronic pain, fatigue, or loss of appetite, the goal is to bring some relief.
But even though palliative care can help a lot, it’s not without side effects. Knowing what those side effects may be and how to handle them can make things less stressful for both the individual and their family.
The fall season can already be filled with transitions and added responsibilities, especially for families in Phoenix. That makes it a good time to better understand some of the common responses people may have to palliative treatment and, more importantly, how to manage them with comfort and care.
Common Physical Side Effects Of Palliative Treatment
Many palliative treatments can lead to physical side effects. These aren’t always severe, but they can impact how a person feels each day. Learning more about these changes and having a plan can make them easier to handle at home.
Some of the most common physical side effects include:
– Fatigue: Patients may feel tired even after resting.
– Nausea: Caused by medications or the illness itself.
– Muscle or joint pain: Often triggered by medications or being in one position too long.
– Shortness of breath: Can result from certain conditions, weak muscles, or treatment types.
– Changes in skin: Dryness, itchiness, and irritation are common during long-term therapy.
Here are a few ways to support someone at home when these symptoms show up:
1. Stick to a gentle routine. Keep daily activities light and allow plenty of downtime.
2. Make food simple and comforting. Small meals and bland snacks, such as crackers or ginger tea, are often easier to tolerate.
3. Offer warm compresses or gentle massages to sore muscles for added relief.
4. Choose soft bedding and clothing to prevent discomfort from dry or sensitive skin.
5. Keep the environment cool with an AC, fan, or open window (if outdoor air is safe) to ease breathing.
If any symptoms get worse or last for several days without improvement, it’s time to contact the care team. Uncontrolled pain or increasing trouble breathing should be addressed right away. A faster response often brings more comfort.
Each patient will respond differently depending on their illness, medications, and overall condition. That’s why paying attention to changes matters. For instance, if someone usually alert begins sleeping more than usual, mention it during your next care call. Monitoring details like that helps the team adjust the plan if needed.
Emotional And Psychological Side Effects
Dealing with a serious illness goes beyond the physical. There’s often an emotional and mental shift that affects both the patient and family members. Palliative treatment can impact how people feel and think.
Mood swings, sadness, anxiety, and irritability aren’t unusual. A person may feel disconnected or frustrated when their body doesn’t cooperate. Some patients might not talk about these thoughts, but the stress can show in behavior or body language.
These simple actions can help provide emotional support:
– Make time for open conversation without forcing a solution. Just being heard can ease stress.
– Surround them with personal comforts like family photos, favorite pillows, or familiar scents and sounds.
– Keep a steady daily routine. Knowing what to expect brings calm and stability.
– Respect the need for privacy, but check in often. Being nearby without pressure can be reassuring.
Sometimes, emotional support from loved ones is enough. Other times, connecting with a therapist, chaplain, or counselor helps patients process life changes more clearly. Support from trained emotional care experts is available and can guide people through hard moments without judgment.
If there’s a big shift in mood or behavior, bring it up with the medical team. Losing interest in daily life, becoming withdrawn, or worrying statements should be taken seriously. The care team may offer options or connect the patient with extra help focused on mental health.
And remember, everyone handles emotional stress differently. There’s no right or wrong reaction. Respect for each person’s pace and space helps create a supportive home environment.
Managing Nutritional Challenges
When someone begins palliative treatment, it can change how they eat and how much they want to eat. Loss of appetite and digestive discomfort are common. In Phoenix, the mild fall weather might mean less interest in heavy meals, so being flexible can help.
Eating might feel like a chore or create discomfort. Smells, textures, or even certain foods that were once favorites can suddenly seem unappealing. These changes can affect mood, comfort, and energy.
Here are ways to support good nutrition without pressure:
– Offer small, frequent meals instead of full plates. A few bites throughout the day are often easier to manage.
– Stick to familiar foods. Avoid introducing new flavors or spices that may cause stomach upset.
– Use softer or blended options like oatmeal, soups, or smoothies which are easier to chew and digest.
– Consider mild seasoning if needed. Avoid anything greasy or overly spicy unless it’s a usual favorite and still well-tolerated.
– Present food in colorful and inviting ways. A sunny spot, favorite dishware, or cheerful placemat can make meals more pleasant.
Hydration matters just as much as eating. Popsicles, flavored water, or juicy fruits like melon and oranges can help if plain water is unappealing. Keep drinks nearby so the patient can sip as they feel able. If drinking becomes hard, alert the care team. There are options to adjust how fluids are given safely.
One story from a Phoenix caregiver involved her dad switching from breakfast sandwiches to vanilla milkshakes. That small change made mornings easier for both of them and brought comfort throughout his day.
As each day passes, keep adjusting based on how the person feels. Don’t force food. Respecting their needs helps lower stress for everyone involved.
Skin And Mobility Considerations
Patients getting palliative care often spend more time resting, which can lead to changes in skin health or ability to move around. While rest is helpful, too much of it can cause discomfort in new ways.
Dry, itchy skin or even pressure sores can develop without regular movement or care. These physical irritations can affect how well someone sleeps or how comfortable they feel during the day.
Here are a few ways to care for the skin and support movement:
– Reposition every couple of hours or as often as the patient can tolerate. Use pillows to gently support these changes.
– Apply unscented lotion to dry spots on elbows, heels, lower back, and any place in frequent contact with bedding or seats.
– Stick with cotton sheets or soft blends to reduce rubbing and heat. Keep bedding smooth to limit irritation.
– Encourage small stretches or gentle movements such as rolling ankles or lifting arms while lying down.
– Include brief out-of-bed time when possible. A short visit to the living room or sitting by a window adds variety and routine.
It’s a good idea to check the skin daily during clothing changes or baths. If you notice redness that doesn’t fade or a sore beginning to form, tell the nurse or doctor immediately. Waiting can lead to bigger issues later.
Movement is equally helpful. When someone stops moving altogether, muscles weaken quickly. Even small activity helps maintain comfort and give the person a sense of independence.
Support That Helps Everyone Breathe Easier
Caring for someone going through palliative treatment is about more than medical routines. It’s about finding ways to bring relief, peace, and comfort to both the person in treatment and those close to them.
Physical symptoms, changes in emotions, eating challenges, and concerns about skin or mobility may feel overwhelming. However, managing them piece by piece allows caregivers to focus on what matters. Every small solution can give something back, whether it’s better sleep, less stress, or a stronger connection.
Families in Phoenix balancing autumn transitions and caregiving duties shouldn’t have to do it alone. You don’t need all the answers right away. Care grows stronger with time, teamwork, and the right help nearby. Sometimes, the best support comes from sharing the load.
For families navigating the challenges of serious illness, understanding and managing the effects of treatments can make each day a little easier. If you’re seeking guidance on palliative treatment, American Premier Hospice is here to support you. Whether you need help easing side effects or want to learn more about our full range of care options, we’re ready to provide the comfort and support your loved one deserves in Phoenix.