How effective is palliative care for metastatic cancer?

Metastatic cancer affects people differently according to the original cancer, areas involved and treatments being used. Palliative care can help with pain, nausea, breathlessness, fatigue, appetite, sleep, mood and family strain. It also supports conversations about treatment choices, likely priorities and how care should be organised. The team may include doctors, nurses, counsellors, pharmacists or social workers, depending on local services and your needs.

Ask your oncology team for a palliative care referral when symptoms interfere with movement, eating, rest or relationships. Share what a good day looks like for you and which activities matter most. Bring your medication list and note changes in symptoms between appointments. Ask for a clear plan for evenings and weekends, including whom to call if a symptom becomes difficult to manage.

Use emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, sudden confusion, fainting, new one-sided weakness, uncontrolled bleeding or severe chest pain. Notify the treating team promptly about fever, rapidly worsening pain, repeated vomiting, or a sudden decline in alertness or mobility.

What symptoms can your palliative team help with? Can they see me during active treatment? What changes require urgent help? Who can support my family and help coordinate care between appointments?