Breathlessness in palliative care: a practical guide

Br J Hosp Med (Lond). 2019 Feb 2;80(2):72-77. doi: 10.12968/hmed.2019.80.2.72.

Abstract

Breathlessness is a common symptom for patients with terminal illness and can be challenging to manage. Breathlessness is acknowledged to be an interaction between body and mind. There are a variety of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies that can be beneficial. The holistic assessment of the breathlessness patient should enable delivery of a tailored package of care focused on relief of symptoms.

MeSH terms

  • Analgesics, Opioid / therapeutic use
  • Benzodiazepines / therapeutic use
  • Breathing Exercises
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Dyspnea / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Noninvasive Ventilation
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Oxygen Inhalation Therapy
  • Palliative Care*
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Terminal Care
  • Terminally Ill

Substances

  • Analgesics, Opioid
  • Benzodiazepines