Sometimes after esting cant stay awake10/13/2023 ![]() ![]() ![]() Some people become completely unconscious for a period of time before they die - this could be short, or as long as several days. They may also drift in and out of consciousness. The person is likely to spend more time sleeping, and will often be drowsy even when they're awake. This is not always needed, and it does not always make a difference. The doctor or nurse may also suggest medication which may help to reduce the fluids in their chest and throat. You can ask to be shown the best way to move the person – ask about sliding sheets. If the breathing is very rattly, it may be helpful to change the person’s position so that they're on their side if they agree or don't seem too disturbed by being moved. If the person is anxious, sitting with them so that they know you're there may help to reduce their anxiety.īreathlessness can be frightening - a small fan and an open window can help. The person does not usually need extra oxygen at this stage. It can be a bit like snoring – which affects those who hear it more than the person who is making the sound. The rattling sound may be upsetting to hear, but it does not seem to cause any distress to the dying person. If the person is anxious, their breath rate may increase a little. Should I be worried?Ī change in the breathing pattern is a normal part of the dying process. ![]() Breaths may become much slower and quieter before they stop altogether. In the very last moments of life, the person’s breathing pattern may change. This is likely to be because they aren't able to re-absorb or swallow the normal fluids in their chest or throat, which can cause a rattling sound. Sometimes the person’s breathing may sound noisy or 'rattling'. There may be long pauses between their breaths. Your doctor may prescribe an oral gel that is used to help moisten the person’s lips and mouth.Īs a person’s body becomes less active in the final stages of life, they need less oxygen, and their breathing may become shallower. moistening the mouth with a damp sponge – special kinds of sponge are available for this purpose (the person may bite on this at first, but keep holding it, as they will let go).offering a drink through a straw (or from a teaspoon or syringe).You can give some comfort to a person with a dry mouth by: If the person is conscious and they want something to eat or drink, you can offer sips, provided they can still swallow. It is normal for all dying people eventually to stop eating and drinking. If they stop drinking, their mouth may look dry, but this does not always mean they are dehydrated. If a person stops eating or drinking because of their reduced appetite, this may be hard to accept, but it is a normal part of the dying process. But it may also be because they have little or no need or desire for food or drink.Įventually, the person will stop eating and drinking, and will not be able to swallow tablets. This could be because they find the effort of eating or drinking to be too much. They may no longer wish to eat or drink anything. A reduction in appetite is one sign that someone may be in the last days of their life. ![]()
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