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Common symptoms in advanced cancer
Ruth L Lagman1, Mellar P Davis, Susan B LeGrand
1The Harry R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, M76 Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. lagmanr@ccf.org
The Surgical Clinics of North America
|April 19, 2005
Summary
Anorexia and cachexia are leading causes of cancer mortality, with available treatments. This article reviews management strategies for common cancer symptoms like dyspnea, delirium, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and constipation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Palliative Care
- Symptom Management
Background:
- Anorexia and cachexia significantly contribute to cancer-related deaths.
- Effective management of cancer symptoms is crucial for patient quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the causes and treatments for common symptoms experienced by cancer patients.
- To guide clinicians in managing anorexia, cachexia, dyspnea, delirium, nausea/vomiting, fatigue, and constipation.
Main Methods:
- Review of current medical literature on cancer symptom management.
- Discussion of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- Anorexia and cachexia have available drug therapies.
- Dyspnea management involves addressing underlying causes and pharmacotherapy.
- Delirium, nausea/vomiting, fatigue, and constipation have specific diagnostic and treatment strategies.
Conclusions:
- Multifactorial approaches are necessary for effective cancer symptom control.
- Timely and appropriate interventions can improve patient outcomes and well-being.