Managing respiratory symptoms at the end of life

Clin Geriatr Med. 2003 Feb;19(1):225-39. doi: 10.1016/s0749-0690(02)00054-x.

Abstract

Early and clear discussion and articulation of preferences about interventions with increasing burdens and diminishing benefits is helpful in identifying the goals of care and planning management for patients who have unremitting terminal illnesses. The development of respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and hiccups is common and can often be anticipated. Aggressive evaluation and treatment should be pursued and offered to palliate symptoms at the end of life.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Causality
  • Chronic Disease
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Dyspnea / economics
  • Dyspnea / epidemiology
  • Dyspnea / etiology
  • Dyspnea / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Respiration, Artificial
  • Terminal Care* / economics
  • Treatment Outcome