In this episode, doctors Lisa and Sara talk to palliative care consultant, Lesley Henson and specialty doctor, Caitriona MacDermott, about breathlessness as a symptom in palliative patients.
They begin by discussing a fictional case and how to approach a patient with deteriorating breathlessness, before discussing a diagnosis of refractory breathlessness.
They also explore the importance of understanding the subjective nature of this experience, before moving on to non-pharmacological and pharmacological options to help manage this often distressing symptom. Finally they discuss managing anxiety around breathlessness and give advice on discussions around death and managing symptoms well.
Listen to the podcast episode at https://pckb.org/e/breathlessness-in-palliative-care/
Useful resources
- Greater Manchester Palliative Care Symptom Control Guidelines for Adults (2019 (p46, section on breathlessness): https://www.england.nhs.uk/north-west/wp-content/uploads/sites/48/2020/01/Palliative-Care-Pain-and-Symptom-Control-Guidelines.pdf
- Clinical Knowledge Summaries: Palliative Care – Dyspnoea (Updated Feb 2024): https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/palliative-care-dyspnoea/#:~:text=Managing%20dyspnoea%20in%20palliative%20care,window%2C%20relaxation%20and%20breathing%20techniques.
- MacMillan Resources: Managing Breathlessness, advice for Patients: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/impacts-of-cancer/breathlessness/managing-everyday-life-with-breathlessness?gad_source=1&gclid=cjwkcajwrckxbhbmeiwaivf8rhfcgjkvqpsq-is9gahloaxjoyq9tsfxwykwym08ewcsyoluupn-1xocq1sqavd_bwe&gclsrc=aw.ds
- Cancer Research UK Resource for Patients and relatives around Breathing Problems for Patients with Cancer: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/coping/physically/breathing-problems
