A symptom is physical evidence of a disease or illness that is experienced by a patient. An example of this is a headache. There are many different symptoms that can be experienced. These may not be the same from person to person. They may be mild in some cases or more severe in others.

Palliative Care Victoria provides further information on specific symptoms and symptom management that may be of help. They also have leaflets on the following topics:

• Pain and pain management
• Fatigue and exhaustion
• Nausea and vomiting
• Anorexia in advanced illness
• Confusion and terminal restlessness.

The Cancer Council of SA provides a resource on Sexuality and Cancer that may be helpful and applies to other illnesses as well as cancer.

The Canadian Virtual Hospice provides a comprehensive overview of many symptoms that people may experience in a life-limiting illness. it provides advice on working with health professionals and tips for managing these symptoms.

Pain is a common symptom. CareSearch has a separate page on pain.

Always talk to your health professional about any symptoms that you may be experiencing. It is also important for them to know if your symptoms get worse or if they get better. This may affect what medications you need to take.

This page was created on 26 March 2007 and is due for review in March 2009
Last reviewed 12 November 2007