ABSTRACT
Crucially, it is at the point of recognising the threat of serious illness that the patient’s communication style may also change. Non-malignant diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic heart disease have a different illness trajectory from cancer; for this group of patients, multiple admissions with frequent exacerbations necessitating complex treatment is the norm. The next exacerbation of illness may need to be managed differently to maximise the patient’s quality of life. Betty’s story illustrates well the valuable work that can be done by professionals when discussing the impact of serious illness. As the seriousness of illness impacts on the patient and his family, many aspects of their lives may change. Serious illness can change the way a patient looks and feels, both in emotional and physical terms. Although healthcare professionals are now more aware of sexual concerns, many people continue to receive little or no information about sexuality during their treatment or illness.
