Care Towards the End of Life for the Breathless Patient

Coping with breathlessness towards the end of life can be challenging. Breathlessness is a frightening symptom and patients intuitively understand its poor prognostic significance. A key step is honest communication about the prognosis, giving patients time to plan and take control of the last part of their lives. This chapter gives practical tips to facilitate open communication, as well as information about symptom control and support of carers.