How Palliative Works with Leukemia and Lymphoma

People who have been diagnosed with leukemia or lymphoma frequently benefit from palliative care or hospice services. This often differs from the impression that many people have of hospice. Namely, it is not only for the very elderly who are nearing the end of their natural life. However, the LifeChoice services in Wheeling, Illinois, are equally suitable for those battling various types of cancers. As a patient, caregiver, or loved one, understanding how palliative care works in these instances can help make the process much smoother and more comfortable.

The Medical Reality of Leukemia and Lymphoma 

These two diagnoses represent different types of blood cancer that affect the bone marrow and immune system, respectively. Each has unique treatment options and rates of survival. Unfortunately, they also increase the need for hospice and palliative care for patients who do not respond to treatment immediately or favorably.

The symptoms associated with both types of cancer can be quite severe and debilitating. People with leukemia can experience extreme weakness and fatigue, weight loss, bone pain, infections, fever, and more. People with lymphoma share fatigue, fever, lack of appetite, and similar symptoms but may also have itching, shortness of breath, chest pain, and other issues. There are both Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which makes the treatment and symptoms different.

Such a serious diagnosis and the associated treatment plans, which can cause many issues on their own, frequently lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and despair in some cases. No matter how young or old the patient is, they deserve as much help as possible to feel their best throughout the fight against lymphoma or leukemia.

Individuals who experience these symptoms while fighting a fatal disease need all the support and care they can get. LifeChoice Hospice & Palliative Care has teams in place with all the skills to help them and their family and loved ones through this challenging time with the most comfort and control as possible.

Supporting Patients’ Well-being and Comfort With Palliative Care

The palliative care team usually includes practitioners, nurses, social workers, potentially therapists, spiritual guides, and an administrative team who organizes everything for maximum assistance and support. In leukemia and lymphoma, the patient does not need a terminal diagnosis to begin getting the help they need in Wheeling and the surrounding area.

Cancer treatment has many unpleasant side effects, and the palliative care team helps alleviate these as much as possible to maintain or improve life quality. They also help educate the patient and other caregivers with clear and honest information. In many cases, fighting cancer is a team effort, and it helps to have professionals with experience on your side during the process.

LifeChoice Hospice & Palliative Care has the experience, knowledge, skills, and caring team of professionals ready to help patients with leukemia and lymphoma in any way possible. As friends, family, and loved ones come together during this challenging time, the support system helps everyone throughout the process.