Palliative care is a philosophy of care that focuses on symptoms, such as pain or shortness of breath, to improve quality of life. It is given along with care that aims to lengthen life.
Palliative care might include medications or treatments, or it might focus on talking with you and your family to understand goals of care, answer questions and help make health decisions.
Any doctor, nurse, or other member of the health care team can provide palliative care. Sometimes, you may see a health professional who specializes in palliative care in addition to your usual doctor or at the same time.