What is the primary focus of palliative care?

The primary focus of palliative care is to provide relief from symptoms and stress associated with serious illnesses, which is essential for improving the quality of life for patients and their families. Palliative care aims to alleviate suffering, not just for the patient but also for their loved ones. It addresses physical symptoms such as pain, nausea, and fatigue, as well as emotional and psychological distress.

This approach is distinct from curative treatment, which seeks to eliminate the disease itself, or other options that focus on monitoring vitals or conducting lab tests. In a palliative care context, the emphasis is on managing discomfort, facilitating communication about treatment goals, and supporting emotional well-being, allowing patients to engage in decision-making and live as fully as possible, regardless of the stage of their illness.