MMW Fortschritte der Medizin
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Comparative Study
["Healthy" nutrition--what are the facts, what are myths?].
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Taking care of the dying is an important and demanding concern for the general physician. In addition to the amelioration of pain, he also has to help the patient to cope with dyspnea, vomiting, constipation, depression and anxiety. To this end, not only morphine but also anti-emetic drugs, laxatives and peristalsis-stimulating suppositories, benzodiazepines and neuroleptics with a sedating effect can make it easier for the patient during the terminal phase of his life. As least as important as the support provided by medication, however, are sympathetic communication with the patient and human warmth.
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Rigorous and appropriate pain therapy is a major element in palliative medicine, and affords the patient the possibility of being better able to organize the remaining time left to him. Every person has a legal right to, receive appropriate treatment for his/her pain, which in advanced disease states, is a multidimensional condition. ⋯ Nevertheless, the simple expression of solidarity with the terminally-ill patient, as is reflected by the provision of sympathetic attention, has in itself a positive impact on pain. By offering comprehensive and nationwide palliative care that is oriented to the needs of the terminal patient, society helps to provide a culture of the dying, and thus also of the living, that reflects humanistic principles.