What to expect from palliative care for metastatic cancer

Metastatic cancer means cancer has spread from where it began to another part of the body. Symptoms and treatment effects vary with the areas involved. A palliative team may assess pain, tiredness, nausea, appetite, sleep, breathlessness, mood, family stress and concerns about independence. It can recommend symptom medicines, rehabilitation, nutrition support, counselling, equipment or community services. The team can explain choices and help you state what you want care to achieve, such as more time at home, easier movement or clearer communication with family.

This support does not require you to stop cancer treatment. It can be introduced early, revisited as circumstances change and coordinated with oncology, primary care and other specialists.

Write down changes in symptoms, your energy across the day and any medicine effects. Share your preferred language, cultural or spiritual needs, and who should receive updates. Ask for help with transport, meals, bathing, work or caring duties when these become difficult. Keep the agreed contact details where family members can find them. A written care plan can prevent confusion when different teams are involved.

Contact your team quickly if a symptom is new, escalating or stopping you from drinking, walking, sleeping or communicating. Seek emergency help for severe trouble breathing, sudden confusion, a seizure, collapse, new one-sided weakness, or inability to pass urine. Do not wait for a routine appointment when a serious change appears.

What is the priority symptom today? Which team coordinates my care? What changes should trigger a call? Who can help my caregiver? How will we review my goals if treatment changes?