Q: Which Doctor should I consult in case of incurable diseases?
A: You can consult your primary physician; he may refer you to a specialist depending upon the disease condition.
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Q: What is an autoimmune disease and is it fatal?
A: Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system of the body works against its own healthy body cells.
- Autoimmune disorders can affect any part of the body. In some cases, they are restricted to a particular organ (e.g. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) or in other cases, may affect several organs of the body (e.g. Systemic lupus erythematosus).
- No specific cause has been cited for the occurrence of autoimmune disorders, though both genetic factors and the environment play a role in their development.
- Autoimmune disorders cannot be cured, only the symptoms can be managed by treatment. They can sometimes progress causing disabling complications and even death.
- Early identification is necessary to slow the progress of the disease and reduce complications
Q: What does it mean when someone is terminally ill?
A: A patient is called terminally ill when he/she is suffering from an illness, injury or degenerative physical or mental condition that as per medical opinion will cause the death of the person. It is difficult to handle the emotional situation of a patient who is facing impending death and great care and support should be provided by the medical professional and close ones during this stage. Empathy, counseling, honesty and continuous family support is required to help the patient through this phase.
