Panting for breath in end-stage dementia

Hermien Goderie-Plomp*, Carole Parsons, David Mehr, Jenny T van der Steen

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

88 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

When a person with advanced dementia develops respiratory symptoms, infection, pulmonary embolism, and heart failure are considerations. Pneumonia often has a high mortality rate and high symptom burden. While a decision to focus on palliative treatment is often appropriate, even with prior discussions families may experience considerable distress. Dyspnea can usually be controlled with opioids, typically morphine. Other symptoms, such as reduced oral intake and dehydration, pain, fever, and neuropsychiatric symptoms, are also discussed. The need for careful symptom monitoring, preferably with observation scales, and swift interventions to alleviate the symptom burden is highlighted. Family support and guidance on a daily basis are important treatment foci.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationRespiratory symptoms
EditorsMargaret L Campbell
PublisherOxford University Press
Chapter13
Pages 109–118
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9780190098926
ISBN (Print)9780190098896
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01 Apr 2023

Publication series

NameWhat Do I Do Now Palliative Care
PublisherOxford University Press

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Panting for breath in end-stage dementia'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this