Frequently Asked Questions

Opioids, sometimes called narcotics, are also used as medicines. Some opioids are made from the opium plant, and others are synthetic (man-made). A doctor may prescribe opioid to reduce pain after you have had a major injury, surgery or cancer.

Palliative medications are used for supporting people with chronic life-limiting and terminal illnesses. Medications may be needed to treat  symptoms associated with the disease.

Nutrition and hydration are very important and emotive issues in palliative medicine. Practices vary widely across the globe. Knowledge and information on the same would help you choose wisely.

 People with diseases such as cancer often report a lack of appetite and reduced intake of food. This may be because of cancer itself, associated treatment, or other side effects. This leads to weight loss and malnutrition. 

Breathlessness or shortness of breath is a symptom with multiple underlying causes. A better understanding and management of this symptom would help in improving the quality of life. 

Hospice is a service, a philosophy of care and not always a brick and mortar building. It can be provided as an Inpatient care (in the hospital, nursing home or other institutions) for patients who need it, but most patients are able to remain in their homes. 

Living with cancer brings about various changes in your relationships. It could be about sharing emotions and intimacy with the partner/spouse, your roles and expressions of feelings  with your children , parents or significant others in your life.

Living with cancer brings about various changes in your relationships. It could be about sharing emotions and intimacy with the partner/spouse, your roles and expressions of feelings with your children , parents or significant others in your life. Physiotherapy provides good physical function and maximises comfort for the cancer warriors. The goal of therapy is to provide symptom control and improve quality of life by using specific exercise techniques and modalities. 

Cancer's growth or destruction of nearby tissue can lead to pain. The location of the cancer determines whether the pain arises from the cancer itself or the treatment received. Regardless of the cause, it is crucial for cancer patients to find relief. The World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledges pain relief as a vital element of cancer treatment. Consequently, WHO has developed a stepwise approach within the global strategy for cancer pain relief. 

All of us are well versed with “Dear Zindagi”, but at the same time, we also need to understand that life is a journey, and when we traverse this, we also need to learn “How to say Goodbye?” as all of us are finite. "Arriving well" in this life is important , but equally important is "living well" and "leaving well". This is extremely important in the context of chronic/life-limiting illnesses. Communications around end-of-life care, death and dying are important and cannot be ignored.

Early financial planning upon a cancer diagnosis is crucial, serving as a preventive measure to manage the financial burden. It establishes a foundation for preparedness, including savings, insurance coverage, and estate and succession planning. Practical tips, such as creating a budget, reducing discretionary spending, and exploring financial assistance options, help navigate finances during treatment. Seeking professional guidance and emotional support are key. 

Advance care planning (ACP) involves preparing for future medical decisions in case of serious illness or communication challenges. It's important for all ages, enabling a voice in healthcare, easing family burdens, and enhancing holistic care. ACP starts anytime and isn't only for the terminally ill. It offers control, honors wishes, and supports loved ones.