Key notes on symptom control issues in Palliative Care

Common Signs and Symptoms of superior vena cava obstruction

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  Persistent headache and feeling of fullness in the head. This may initially be mistaken for sinus problems.
  

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  Oedema of face and arms that is usually bilateral, is usually worse in the morning and may fluctuate over the day. Early morning oedema of the eyelids making it hard for the patient to open their eyes is an early sign.
  

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  Dusky colour to the skin of chest wall, arms or face with distended superficial veins.
  
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  Breathlessness that is worse on lying flat.