Cancer, especially ovarian cancer, remains a major threat to human health today as modern medicine progresses. ovarian cancer is relatively common among women, especially at an advanced stage, when patients face a dual physical and psychological challenge. So, how do we deal with ovarian cancer when it’s advanced? What does palliative care mean? This paper will help you to understand this important topic by interpreting the palliative treatment options for patients with advanced ovarian cancer.
Basic knowledge of ovarian cancer
ovarian cancer is a malignant tumour that occurs in ovaries, usually with no visible symptoms at an early stage, so many women are at an advanced stage of diagnosis. According to medical studies, the exact causes of ovarian cancer are not yet entirely clear, but some risk factors are considered to be relevant to their occurrence, including age, family history, genetic factors (e.g. a genetic mutation of the BRCA), fertility and the use of hormone substitution therapy.
Late-stage ovarian cancer is often characterized by abdominal abdominal pain, abdominal atrophy and a decrease in body weight, with a marked decline in the quality of life of patients. At this stage, the goal of treatment is not only to prolong life but, more importantly, to improve and sustain the quality of life of patients. Precautionary treatment is one of the important options at this time.
Meaning and purpose of palliative care
The palliative care refers to medical services aimed at alleviating the suffering of patients and improving their quality of life at all stages of the treatment of diseases. Unlike traditional treatments, palliative care does not simply seek cures, but rather focuses on the overall well-being of patients and helps them to cope with the challenges posed by the disease.
For patients with advanced ovarian cancer, palliative care may include the following:
Pain management: Pain is one of the common symptoms of ovarian cancer in late life. Doctors use painkillers (e.g., anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids, etc.) to relieve pain and to help the patient recover a certain ability to live, depending on the patient ‘ s circumstances. 2. Emotional support: Cancer diagnosis and treatment are often accompanied by anxiety and depression. Psychologists and social workers can provide emotional support to help patients and their families cope with stress and promote physical and mental health.
3. Nutritional support: People with advanced ovarian cancer may suffer from reduced appetite and malnutrition. The nutritionist will develop a rational diet based on the patient ‘ s specific circumstances, ensuring that the patient receives adequate nutrition to maintain the essential functions of the body.
Family support: Care and support are not limited to the patient himself, but the participation of family members is equally important. The palliative care helps families to understand the course of the disease and the main points of care, and enhances patient support capacity.
In the course of palliative care, patients can also improve their quality of life through some lifestyle adjustments:
Dietary regulation: Patients should choose easily digestible and nutritious foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and quality proteins. At the same time, high sugar, high fat and stimulating foods are avoided in order to reduce the digestive burden.
2. Moderate exercise: Although late-stage cancer patients may be physically weak, moderate movement is still beneficial. Easy activities such as walking, yoga and stretching can be chosen to increase body flexibility and comfort.
3. Maintenance of good quality: regularity helps to improve the quality of sleep and enhances the resilience of the body. Patients should be able to sleep as much as possible to avoid lateness and excessive fatigue.
Mental health: Maintaining a positive mentality is important for people with advanced cancers. Reluctance can be achieved by reading, listening to music, meditation and so on.
Summary
Late-stage ovarian cancer faces many challenges, but through palliative care and lifestyle adjustments, patients can improve their quality of life to a certain extent and maintain their love for life. Whatever the situation, a positive mindset and a scientific response are important weapons in our fight against disease. Here, we hope that every patient will find his or her own way of coping on this difficult road and enjoy every little thing in life. Life ends, but hope and love will always accompany us.
