What is the most appropriate term for treatment that alleviates symptoms while the immune system recovers?

The term that best describes treatment aimed at alleviating symptoms while allowing the immune system to recover is supportive therapy. This type of therapy focuses on providing relief and maintaining comfort for the patient without directly addressing the underlying cause of the illness. It often includes measures such as hydration, pain management, and nutritional support, which are crucial in helping a patient's own body defenses restore health.

While acute therapy typically refers to treatment aimed at resolving a specific health issue in a short time frame, it may not encompass the broader approach of symptom relief as effectively as supportive therapy. Palliative therapy, on the other hand, is primarily associated with end-of-life care and focuses on relieving suffering rather than promoting recovery. Empiric therapy refers to treatment initiated based on clinical judgment before obtaining definitive diagnostic information. Thus, supportive therapy aligns best with the objective of alleviating symptoms during the recovery of the immune system.