Nonpain symptom management in terminal care

The treatment of nonpain symptoms is integral to good palliative care of the terminally ill elder. This article reviews the management of common physical symptoms observed during the dying process, including nausea and vomiting, dyspnea, cough, constipation, diarrhea, bowel obstruction, and xerostomia. Alleviation of these symptoms is necessary for a comfortable and tranquil death for the patient, and an uncomplicated bereavement for surviving family members.