The primary treatment of<unk>  is directed at its underlying cause. Extra oxygen is effective in those with hypoxia; however, this has no effect in those with normal blood oxygen saturations. Physiotherapy Individuals can benefit from a variety of physical therapy interventions. Persons with neurological/neuromuscular abnormalities may have<unk> ing difficulties due to weak or paralyzed intercostal, abdominal and/or other muscles needed for ventilation. Some physical therapy interventions for this population include active assisted cough techniques, volume augmentation such as<unk>  stacking, education about body position and ventilation patterns and movement strategies to facilitate<unk> ing. Pulmonary rehabilitation may alleviate symptoms in some people, such as those with COPD, but will not cure the underlying disease. Fan therapy to the face has been shown to relieve<unk>  in patients with a variety of advanced illnesses including cancer. The mechanism of action is thought to be stimulation of the trigeminal nerve. Palliative medicine Systemic immediate release opioids are beneficial in emergently reducing the symptom of<unk>  due to both cancer and non cancer causes; long-acting/sustained-release opioids are also used to prevent/continue treatment of dyspnea in palliative setting. There is a lack of evidence to recommend midazolam, nebulised opioids, the use of gas mixtures, or cognitive-behavioral therapy. Non-pharmacological techniques Non-pharmacological interventions provide key tools for the management of<unk> lessness. Potentially beneficial approaches include active management of psychosocial issues (anxiety, depression, etc.), and implementation of self-management strategies, such as physical and mental relaxation techniques, pacing techniques, energy conservation techniques, learning exercises to control<unk> ing, and education. The use of a fan may also be beneficial. Cognitive behavioural therapy may also be helpful. Pharmacological treatment For people with severe, chronic, or uncontrollable<unk> lessness, non-pharmacological approaches to treating<unk> lessness may be combined with medication. For people who have cancer that is causing the<unk> lessness, medications that have been suggested include opioids, benzodiazepines, oxygen, and steroids. Results of recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses found opioids were not necessarily associated with more effectiveness in treatment for patients with advanced cancer. Ensuring that the balance between side effects and adverse effects from medications and potential improvements from medications needs to be carefully considered before prescribing medication. The use of systematic corticosteriods in palliative care for people with cancer is common, however the effectiveness and potential adverse effects of this approach in adults with cancer has not been well studied.
Shortness of breath
Bad breath
Cough
Voice change
Labored breathing
Alertness
Personality changes
Sore throat