Can my symptoms still be treated if I stop cancer treatment?

Yes. Your symptoms can still be treated even if you decide to stop treatment aimed at the cancer.

This kind of care is called palliative care, and it is especially important if you choose to stop treating your cancer. It includes treating or preventing the symptoms and side effects caused by cancer and its treatment, getting emotional and spiritual support, and addressing the practical concerns of patients and families.

All patients have a right to comfort and quality of life throughout their care. Many of the same methods used to treat cancer can also be used to make you more comfortable; for example, radiation may be given to slow the growth of a tumor causing pain. Ask your doctor or nurse whether a palliative care specialist could help with your symptoms.