Palliative Therapy | Apollo Hospitals

What is
Palliative Therapy

Palliative therapy focuses on relieving symptoms, improving quality of life, and supporting patients through the emotional, physical, and psychological challenges of cancer — regardless of the stage of disease. Contrary to common belief, palliative therapy is not limited to end-of-life care. It is an essential component of modern cancer treatment, integrated alongside curative or disease-controlling therapies from the time of diagnosis in many cases.

At Apollo Athenaa, palliative therapy is not seen as a last resort, but as a parallel pathway that enhances comfort, dignity, and well-being throughout the cancer journey.

How the
Treatment Works

At Apollo Athenaa, palliative therapy is delivered through a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach that addresses not just physical symptoms, but also emotional and practical challenges.

Palliative therapy is delivered by a multidisciplinary team. It is highly individualized and may include:

Pain management, using oral medications, nerve blocks, or palliative radiotherapy
Symptom control, including treatment for nausea, breathlessness, fatigue, constipation, or insomnia
Nutritional support to address appetite loss or weight changes
Psychosocial counselling to help cope with anxiety, depression, or emotional distress
Advanced care planning, including support with decision-making, goals of care, and communication with family members

These interventions are carefully coordinated to ensure that the patient’s comfort, function, and dignity are prioritized at every stage.

When Palliative Care
Is Recommended

Palliative therapy can be initiated at any point in the cancer journey and is especially important in:

Advanced Disease

Advanced or metastatic cancers, where cure may not be possible but quality of life remains a priority.

During Treatment

While receiving chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy, to manage side effects and support overall well-being.

High Symptom-Load

In cases of complex or persistent symptoms, even when active anti-cancer treatment is ongoing.

Post-Treatment Support

During survivorship, when patients may experience lingering symptoms or require emotional and psychological support.

Key
Advantages

Experience the benefits of advanced care tailored to your needs. At Apollo Athenaa, our approach ensures accuracy, comfort, and better treatment outcomes at every step.

Enhances Quality of Life

Manages pain and discomfort, reduces symptom burden, and improves emotional and physical well-being — leading to better quality of life.

Supports Ongoing Treatment

Helps patients better tolerate chemotherapy or targeted therapies by managing side effects.

Patient-Centred Decision Making

Encourages open discussions about goals of care, treatment expectations, and what matters most to the patient.

Preserves Dignity and Autonomy

Ensures the patient’s preferences are respected, especially during serious illness or the end of life.

Side Effects Of
Palliative Therapy

At Apollo Athenaa, our expert medical oncologists balance symptom control with quality of alertness and daily functioning.Palliative therapy is aimed at reducing treatment-related and disease-related side effects, rather than causing new ones. However, some symptom-relieving medications and interventions may require monitoring.

Examples include:

Opioids (used for pain) can cause constipation, drowsiness, or nausea
Steroids (used for inflammation or appetite stimulation) may cause mood changes, sleep issues, or elevated blood sugar
Sedatives or anti-anxiety medications may need dosage adjustments to prevent over-sedation

Continuum of Care

At Apollo Athenaa, palliative therapy is an essential part of our commitment to holistic cancer care, ensuring that every patient’s journey is not just medically managed but meaningfully supported. Follow-up includes:

Ongoing symptom monitoring and adjustment of medications

Emotional and spiritual support

Rehabilitation and mobility support when needed

Survivorship planning for patients transitioning out of active treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Is palliative care only for patients at the end of life?

01

Not at all. At Apollo Athenaa, palliative care is introduced early in the cancer journey to relieve symptoms, support emotional wellbeing, and improve overall quality of life — whether or not curative treatment is still ongoing.

Can I receive palliative care while I’m still getting chemotherapy or immunotherapy?

02

Yes. Many patients benefit from both at the same time. Palliative therapy at Athenaa helps manage side effects, reduce fatigue, improve appetite, and support emotional health so you can continue treatment with better comfort.

How does palliative care support my family or caregivers?

03

Athenaa’s palliative team offers counselling, practical guidance, and communication support to help families understand treatment decisions, manage stress, and feel more confident in caregiving roles.

Will palliative therapy mean stopping my cancer treatment?

04

Not necessarily. At Apollo Athenaa, palliative care can run alongside active cancer treatment. Its goal is not to replace therapy but to ensure that your symptoms, comfort, and dignity are prioritized at every stage.

What kinds of symptoms can palliative care help with?

05

Beyond pain, Athenaa’s specialists manage nausea, breathlessness, fatigue, insomnia, appetite loss, anxiety, and more. The approach is holistic, addressing physical, emotional, and functional needs.

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