The death of a person is a very sensitive topic for most people, but, unfortunately, each of us has to deal with it one way or another. If the family has bedridden elderly or oncological sick relatives, it is necessary not only for the guardian himself to mentally prepare for an imminent loss, but also to know how to help and alleviate the last moments of the life of a loved one.

A person who is bedridden for the rest of his life constantly experiences mental anguish. Being in his right mind, he understands what inconvenience he causes to others, imagines what he will have to endure. Moreover, such people feel all the changes that occur in their body.

How does a sick person die? To understand that a person has a few months / days / hours left to live, you need to know the main signs of death in a bedridden patient.

How to recognize the signs of impending death?

Signs of death of a bedridden patient are divided into initial and investigative. At the same time, one is the cause of the other.

Note. Any of the following symptoms may be the result of a long-term and there is a chance to reverse it.

Changing the routine of the day

The daily regimen of an immobile bedridden patient consists of sleep and wakefulness. The main sign that death is near is that a person is constantly immersed in a superficial sleep, as if dozing. With such a stay, a person feels less physical pain, but his psycho-emotional state seriously changes. The expression of feelings becomes scarce, the patient constantly withdraws into himself and is silent.

Edema and discoloration of the skin

The next reliable sign that death is inevitable in the near future is the appearance of various spots on the skin. These signs before death appear in the body of a dying bedridden patient due to a disruption in the functioning of the circulatory system and metabolic processes. Spots occur due to the uneven distribution of blood and fluids in the vessels.

Problems with the senses

Older people often have problems with vision, hearing and tactile sensations. In bedridden patients, all diseases are exacerbated against the background of constant severe pain, damage to organs and the nervous system, as a result of circulatory disorders.

Signs of death in a bedridden patient are manifested not only in psycho-emotional changes, but the external image of a person will certainly change. Often you can observe the so-called "cat's eye". This phenomenon is associated with a sharp drop in eye pressure.

Loss of appetite

As a result of the fact that a person practically does not move and spends most of the day in a dream, a secondary sign of approaching death appears - the need for food is significantly reduced, the swallowing reflex disappears. In this case, in order to feed the patient, they use a syringe or probe, glucose, and a course of vitamins is prescribed. As a result of the fact that a bedridden patient does not eat or drink, the general condition of the body worsens, problems with breathing, the digestive system and “going to the toilet” appear.

Violation of thermoregulation

If the patient has a discoloration of the limbs, the appearance of cyanosis and venous spots - a lethal outcome is inevitable. The body consumes the entire supply of energy to maintain the functioning of the main organs, reduces the circle of blood circulation, which in turn leads to the appearance of paresis and paralysis.

General weakness

In the last days of life, a bedridden patient does not eat, experiences severe weakness, he cannot move independently and even rise to relieve himself of natural need. His body weight is drastically reduced. In most cases, the processes of defecation and can occur arbitrarily.

Altered consciousness and memory problems

If the patient has:

• memory problems;
• a sharp change in mood;
• bouts of aggression;
• depression - this means the defeat and death of the parts of the brain responsible for thinking. A person does not react to the people around him and ongoing events, performs inadequate actions.

Predagony

Predagonia is a manifestation of a protective reaction of the body in the form of a stupor or coma. As a result, metabolism decreases, breathing problems appear, necrosis of tissues and organs begins.

Agony

Agony is the dying state of the body, a temporary improvement in the physical and psycho-emotional state of the patient, caused by the destruction of all vital processes in the body. A bedridden patient before death may notice:

• improvement of hearing and vision;
• normalization of respiratory processes and heartbeat;
• clear consciousness;
• reduction in pain.

Symptoms of clinical and biological death

Clinical death is a reversible process that appeared suddenly or after a serious illness, and requires urgent medical attention. Signs of clinical death, manifested in the first minutes:

If a person is in a coma, attached to a ventilator (ALV), and the pupils are dilated due to the action of medications, then clinical death can only be determined by the results of an ECG.

With the provision of timely assistance, within the first 5 minutes, you can bring a person back to life. If you provide artificial support for blood circulation and breathing later, you can return the heart rhythm, but the person will never regain consciousness. This is due to the fact that brain cells die earlier than the neurons responsible for the life of the body.

A dying bedridden patient may not show signs before death, but clinical death will be recorded.

Biological or true death is the irreversible cessation of the functioning of the body. Biological death occurs after clinical, so all the primary symptoms are similar. Secondary symptoms appear within 24 hours:

• cooling and rigor of the body;
• drying of mucous membranes;
• the appearance of cadaveric spots;
• tissue breakdown.

Behavior of the dying patient

In the last days of their lives, the dying often remember what they have lived, tell the brightest moments of their lives in all colors and details. Thus, a person wants to leave as much good about himself as possible in the memory of loved ones. Positive changes in consciousness lead to the fact that a recumbent person tries to do something, wants to go somewhere, while being indignant that he has very little time left.

Such positive mood swings are rare, most often the dying fall into a deep depression, show aggressiveness. Doctors explain that mood changes can be associated with taking strong narcotic painkillers, the rapid development of the disease, the appearance of metastases and jumps.

A bedridden patient before death, being bedridden for a long time, but in a healthy mind, ponders his life and actions, evaluates what he and his loved ones will have to endure. Such thoughts lead to a change in the emotional background and peace of mind. Some of these people lose interest in what is happening around them and in life in general, others become withdrawn, others lose their minds and the ability to think sensibly. The constant deterioration of the state of health leads to the fact that the patient constantly thinks about death, asks to alleviate his situation by euthanasia.

How to relieve the suffering of the dying

Bedridden patients, people after trauma or having an oncological disease, most often experience severe pain. To block these, strong painkillers are prescribed by the attending physician. Many pain relievers are only available with a prescription (eg Morphine). In order to prevent the emergence of dependence on these drugs, it is necessary to constantly monitor the patient's condition and change the dosage or stop taking the drug when an improvement appears.

How long can a bedridden patient live? No doctor can give an exact answer to this question. A relative or guardian caring for a bedridden patient needs to be near him around the clock. To more and alleviate the suffering of the patient, you should use special means - beds,. To distract the patient, you can put a TV, radio or laptop next to his bed, it is also worth getting a pet (cat, fish).

Most often, relatives, having learned that their relative needs, refuse him. Such bedridden patients end up in hospitals, where everyone falls on the shoulders of the workers of these institutions. Such an attitude towards a dying person not only leads to his apathy, aggression and isolation, but also aggravates the state of health. There are certain standards of care in medical institutions and boarding houses, for example, a certain amount of disposable products (diapers, diapers) is allocated for each patient, and bedridden patients are practically deprived of communication.

When caring for a bedridden relative, it is important to choose an effective method of alleviating suffering, provide him with everything necessary and constantly worry about his well-being. Only in this way can his mental and physical suffering be reduced, as well as prepare for his inevitable death. It is impossible to decide everything for a person, it is important to ask his opinion about what is happening, to provide a choice in certain actions. In some cases, when there are only a few days left to live, it is possible to cancel a number of heavy drugs that cause inconvenience to a bedridden patient (antibiotics, diuretics, complex vitamin complexes, and hormonal drugs). It is necessary to leave only those medicines and tranquilizers that relieve pain, prevent the occurrence of seizures and vomiting.

Brain reaction before death

In the last hours of a person's life, his brain activity is disturbed, numerous irreversible changes appear as a result of oxygen starvation, hypoxia and the death of neurons. A person may see hallucinations, hear something, or feel as if someone is touching him. Brain processes take a few minutes, so the patient in the last hours of life often falls into a stupor or loses consciousness. The so-called "visions" of people before death are often associated with a past life, religion or unfulfilled dreams. To date, there is no exact scientific answer about the nature of the appearance of such hallucinations.

What are the predictors of death according to scientists

How does a sick person die? According to numerous observations of dying patients, scientists made a number of conclusions:

1. Not all patients have physiological changes. Every third person who dies has no obvious symptoms of death.
2. 60-72 hours before death, most patients lose their response to verbal stimuli. They do not respond to a smile, do not respond to the gestures and facial expressions of the guardian. There is a change in voice.
3. Two days before death, there is an increased relaxation of the neck muscles, i.e., it is difficult for the patient to keep his head in an elevated position.
4. Slow, also the patient cannot close his eyelids tightly, close his eyes.
5. You can also observe obvious violations of the gastrointestinal tract, bleeding in its upper sections.

Signs of imminent death in a bedridden patient manifest themselves in different ways. According to the observations of doctors, it is possible to notice obvious manifestations of symptoms in a certain period of time, and at the same time determine the approximate date of death of a person.

	Development time
Changing the routine of the day	A few months
Swelling of the limbs	3-4 weeks
Perceptual disturbance	3-4 weeks
General weakness, refusal to eat	3-4 weeks
Impaired brain activity	10 days
Predagony	Short-term manifestation
Agony	Several minutes to an hour
Coma, clinical death	Without assistance, a person dies in 5-7 minutes.

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Cancer before death: what you need to be prepared for?

The period of the end of life is individual for each patient with oncology. so spreads in the body that it becomes uncontrollable. In this case, health care professionals often decide that further treatment is useless. However, patient care continues further, but with an emphasis on improving the quality of life. The main task is to make the last days of the patient as easy as possible.

Treatments and medications are aimed at controlling pain and other end-of-life symptoms. Patients and their families often want to know how long a person will live. This question is difficult to answer. In cancer before death, life expectancy depends on a number of factors, including the type of malignant process, its location, comorbidities, and their ability to influence the situation.

It is important to know :

Cancer before death: symptoms, signs, sensations

People who care for a dying person should be aware of the physical difficulties their ward is experiencing. The caregiver should be prepared for the occurrence of unusual symptoms of cancer before death in order to immediately seek qualified medical help and alleviate the suffering of the patient. Emergency situations include:

• the patient experiencing new symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, uncontrollable states (severe anxiety or restlessness);
• increased pain that does not go away even after taking prescribed medications;
• the presence of breathing problems, discomfort expressed by grimaces of pain or a strong groan;
• inability to urinate or have a bowel movement;
• depressed state of the patient, which even comes to topics about suicide.

How do cancer patients feel before they die?

Some symptoms of the patient's condition may clearly indicate the approach of death, namely:

1. People often focus on the last weeks of life, supposedly forgetting the previous one. This does not necessarily mean that patients become depressed. This situation may indicate a decrease in blood flow or oxygen levels in the brain, as well as psychological preparation for death.
2. Loss of interest in things that previously occupied them (TV shows, talking with friends, pets, hobbies, etc.).
3. Some patients may have increased drowsiness, confusion upon awakening, which is associated with a decrease in the functioning of the brain system.

Signs of cancer before death, for which relatives or caregivers should be prepared

1. Extreme restlessness, unwillingness to be alone. It is better for a person caring for a sick person to be near the dying person in order to help in the next bouts of panic or despair.
2. The pain can get so intense that it becomes difficult to control. In this case, massage or other methods of relaxation, as well as properly selected medications, can help.
3. Weakness and fatigue increase with time.
4. As soon as the body is affected by a malignant process, the patient's body needs less food. Loss of appetite is caused by the body's need to conserve energy expended on the use of food and liquid, as well as the impossibility of the normal functioning of the digestive system.
5. Toward the end of life, people often have episodes of confusion or daydreams. They can get confused in time, place, loved ones.
6. Sometimes patients report seeing or talking to loved ones who have died. People with cancer often talk about an exciting ride, radiant light, butterflies and other symbols that are hidden from prying eyes before they die.

Symptoms that indicate the process of dying

• Loss of bladder or bowel control due to relaxation of the pelvic muscles. Therefore, a person needs to change linen and personal hygiene products. You can place disposable diapers under the patient or wear diapers for adults.
• have reduced kidney function, and therefore consume less fluid. This leads to infrequent urination and a strong odor.
• The intervals between breaths shorten, become faster, or become cyclical. In this regard, different sounds may appear, which indicate the collection of saliva and other fluids in the upper respiratory tract. This condition may disturb the caregiver, but it does not bring suffering to the patient. To alleviate the situation, you can use a pillow under your head or a roller, which allows a person to stay in an elevated position.
• The skin may take on a bluish tint. The dying person often feels cool because the blood flow slows down. This condition is not painful. However, the caregiver must warm the patient with a heating pad or electric blanket.

For acquaintance:

No one can stop the approach of death, but close people are able to do everything so that the dying person does not feel lonely in the last days of his life.

Oncological diseases in most cases are not treatable. Cancer can affect absolutely any human organ. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to save the patient. The last stage of the disease turns into a real torment for him, in the end, a fatal outcome is inevitable. Close people who are close to cancer patients should know what symptoms and signs characterize this period. Thus, they will be able to create the proper conditions for the dying, support him and provide assistance.

All cancers progress in stages. The disease develops in four stages. The last fourth stage is characterized by the appearance of irreversible processes. At this stage, it is no longer possible to save a person.

The last stage of cancer is the process in which cancer cells begin to spread throughout the body and affect healthy organs. A lethal outcome at this stage cannot be avoided, but doctors can alleviate the patient's condition and slightly extend his life. The fourth stage of cancer is characterized by the following signs:

• the occurrence of malignant tumors throughout the body;
• damage to the liver, lungs, brain, esophagus;
• the occurrence of aggressive forms of cancer, such as myeloma, melanoma, etc.).

The fact that the patient cannot be saved at this stage does not mean that he will not need any therapy. On the contrary, properly selected treatment will allow a person to live longer and greatly alleviate his condition.

Symptoms before death

Oncological diseases affect different organs, and therefore, signs of impending imminent death can be expressed in different ways. However, in addition to the symptoms characteristic of each type of disease, there are general signs that may occur in a patient before death:

1. Weakness, drowsiness. The most characteristic sign of impending death is constant fatigue. This is due to the fact that the patient's metabolism slows down. He constantly wants to sleep. Do not disturb him, let the body rest. During sleep, the sick person rests from pain and suffering.
2. Decreased appetite. The body does not need much energy, so the patient does not feel like eating or drinking. No need to insist and force him to eat by force.
3. Difficulty breathing. The patient may suffer from lack of air, wheezing and heavy breathing.
4. Disorientation. Human organs lose their ability to function normally, so the patient becomes disoriented in reality, forgets elementary things, does not recognize his relatives and friends.
5. Immediately before death, a person's limbs become cold, they may even acquire a bluish tint. This is due to the fact that the blood begins to flow to the vital organs.
6. Before death, cancer patients begin to develop characteristic venous spots on their legs, the reason for this is poor blood circulation. The appearance of such spots on the feet signal an imminent death.

Stages of death

In general, the process of death from oncological diseases takes place sequentially in several stages.

1. Predagonia. At this stage, there are significant disturbances in the activity of the central nervous system. Physical and emotional functions are drastically reduced. The skin turns blue, blood pressure drops sharply.
2. Agony. At this stage, oxygen starvation occurs, as a result of which breathing stops and the blood circulation process slows down. This period lasts no more than three hours.
3. clinical death. There is a critical decrease in the activity of metabolic processes, all body functions stop their activity.
4. biological death. The vital activity of the brain stops, the body dies.

Such near-death symptoms are characteristic of all cancer patients. But these symptoms can be supplemented by other signs, which depend on which organs have been affected by oncological formations.

Death from lung cancer

Lung cancer is the most common disease among all cancers. It proceeds almost asymptomatically and is detected very late, when it is no longer possible to save a person.

Before dying from lung cancer, the patient experiences unbearable pain when breathing. The closer death is, the more pain in the lungs becomes stronger and more painful. The patient does not have enough air, he is dizzy. An epileptic seizure may begin.

The main cause of liver cancer can be considered a disease - cirrhosis of the liver. Viral hepatitis is another disease that leads to liver cancer.

Death from liver cancer is very painful. The disease progresses quite quickly. In addition, pain in the liver is accompanied by nausea and general weakness. The temperature rises to critical levels. The patient experiences excruciating suffering before the onset of imminent death from liver cancer.

Esophageal carcinoma

Esophageal cancer is a very dangerous disease. In the fourth stage of esophageal cancer, the tumor grows and affects all nearby organs. Therefore, pain symptoms can be felt not only in the esophagus, but even in the lungs. Death can occur from exhaustion of the body, since a patient suffering from cancer of the esophagus cannot eat food in any form. Food is made only through a probe. Such patients will no longer be able to eat ordinary foods.

Before death, all those suffering from liver cancer experience great agony. They vomit violently, most often with blood. Sharp chest pains cause discomfort.

Last days of life

The care of loved ones is very important for the dying. It is close people who create favorable conditions for the patient, which, at least for a short time, alleviate his suffering.

Patients with the fourth stage of oncological disease are usually not kept within the walls of a hospital. These patients are allowed to go home. Before death, patients take strong painkillers. And yet, despite this, they continue to experience unbearable pain. Death from cancer may be accompanied by intestinal obstruction, vomiting, hallucinations, headaches, epileptic seizures, hemorrhages in the esophagus and lungs.

By the time of the onset of the last stage, almost the entire body is affected by metastases. The patient is supposed to sleep and rest, then the pains torment him to a lesser extent. The care of loved ones is very important for the dying at this stage. It is close people who create favorable conditions for the patient, which, at least for a short time, alleviate his suffering.

The article will give you mixed feelings. On the one hand, mental anguish and suffering. On the other hand, a clear understanding of what remains to be experienced. Of course, nothing can replace or muffle the pain of losing a loved one. After reading the note, you at least mentally prepare for this.

How does a dying person feel?

On the threshold of death, many things change. Both physically and emotionally. But, like everything in our life individually, the onset of death is also purely personal.

This cannot be predicted or changed. But there are similar symptoms, regardless of pre-existing illnesses, that all older people experience.

1. Drowsiness and weakness in the body
2. A person sees and hears what others do not notice
3. Weak, shortness of breath
4. Urine turns dark red or brown
5. Chair problems
6. Appetite disappears
7. Body temperature fluctuates from too high to extremely low
8. Changes in mood and feelings
9. Legs swell
10. Venous spots occur (especially on the soles of the feet)

Let's talk about each of the points in more detail.

Constant sleepiness and weakness in the body

The period of wakefulness is reduced, the metabolism slows down. When you hibernate, your body tries to protect itself from dehydration and fatigue. Therefore, an elderly person constantly tends to sleep. At the same time, sleep is deep, without any reaction. It's getting harder to wake up in the morning.

Don't wake up the person. Let him sleep as much as his body requires. Moreover, even while in deep sleep, he hears and remembers your words.

Visual and auditory hallucinations

Seeing and hearing what others do not notice is quite normal in this situation. There is nothing mysterious or suspicious here. In addition, hallucinations can affect the organs of vision, smell, tactile and taste senses.

The breath changes

Becomes intermittent, wet, noisy and stagnant. Stops more and more. There are wheezing. Doctors usually recommend oxygen therapy to alleviate suffering.

Urine color change and stool problems

In the body of an elderly person, there is a catastrophic lack of water. The water balance is broken. Hence the rare trips to the toilet and problems with the kidneys. As a result, urine becomes concentrated. It darkens and decreases in number.

Constipation is connected to this. It is increasingly difficult for a person to go to the toilet without additional stimulation.

Lack of appetite

As mentioned above, metabolic processes slow down. This is reflected in the desire to eat. Or rather, its absence. Less and less thirsty. Food is difficult to swallow. To quench your thirst, you can moisten your mouth with a damp cloth. But in no case do not try to force feed. Nothing good will come of it.

A fairly common sign of approaching death. So, during the day, body temperature can vary from too high to critically low.

This is due to disruption of the part of the brain responsible for thermoregulation. Hence, hands and feet get cold. The skin changes color.

Rubbing the body with a cool or warm towel will relieve suffering. Or, alternatively, you can give one of the following medicines:

• Ibuprofen
• Aspirin
• Naproxen
• Acetaminophen

If the tablets are painful to swallow, purchase them in the form of rectal suppositories.

Uncontrolled emotions

Along with physical changes, mood swings are also quite common. Some completely withdraw into themselves, avoid communication with loved ones. Others, on the contrary, are immersed in warm and pleasant memories. Describe them down to the smallest detail. But ask about recent events and they won't be able to answer you.

There are also those who communicate with dead people.

In some cases, emotional changes reach psychosis.

Swelling of the legs

This symptom is caused by poor kidney function. Instead of removing fluid, they accumulate it in the body. Usually in the legs.

Venous spots on the body

On the body of a dying person, especially on the soles of the feet, venous spots of a red or blue hue appear. It is caused by slow blood circulation.

After all, it helps to mentally prepare for the inevitable end and notice the changes taking place in time. Let's discuss the signs of death of the patient together and pay attention to their key features.

Most often, signs of imminent death are classified into primary and secondary. Some develop as a consequence of others. It is logical that if a person began to sleep more, then he eats less, etc. We will consider all of them. But, cases may be different and exceptions to the rules are acceptable. As well as variants of a normal median survival rate, even with a symbiosis of terrible signs of a change in the patient's condition. This is a kind of miracle that happens at least once in a century.

What are the signs of death?

Changing sleep and wake patterns

Discussing the initial signs of impending death, doctors agree that the patient has less and less time to stay awake. He is more often immersed in superficial sleep and seems to be dozing. This saves precious energy and less pain is felt. The latter fades into the background, becoming, as it were, background. Of course, the emotional side suffers greatly. The paucity of expressing one's feelings, the isolation in oneself, the desire to be silent more than to speak, leave an imprint on relationships with others. There is no desire to ask and answer any questions, to be interested in everyday life and people around.

As a result, in advanced cases, patients become apathetic and detached. They sleep almost 20 hours a day if there is no acute pain and serious irritants. Unfortunately, such an imbalance threatens with stagnant processes, mental problems and accelerates death.

puffiness

Very reliable signs of death are swelling and the presence of spots on the legs and arms. We are talking about malfunctions of the kidneys and circulatory system. In the first case, with oncology, the kidneys do not have time to cope with toxins and they poison the body. At the same time, metabolic processes are disturbed, blood is redistributed unevenly in the vessels, forming areas with spots. It is not for nothing that they say that if such marks appear, then we are talking about complete dysfunction of the limbs.

Hearing, vision, perception problems

The first signs of death are a change in hearing, vision and a normal sense of what is happening around. Such changes can be against the background of severe pain, oncological lesions, stagnation of blood or tissue death. Often, before death, a phenomenon with pupils can be observed. The eye pressure drops and you can see how the pupil deforms like a cat when you press it.

Hearing is all relative. It can recover in the last days of life or even worsen, but this is already more agony.

Decreased need for food

When a cancer patient is at home, all relatives notice signs of death. She gradually refuses food. First, the dose is reduced from a plate to a quarter of a saucer, and then the swallowing reflex gradually disappears. There is a need for nutrition through a syringe or tube. In half of the cases, a system with glucose and vitamin therapy is connected. But the effectiveness of such support is very low. The body is trying to use up its own fat stores and minimize waste. From this, the general condition of the patient worsens, drowsiness and shortness of breath appear.

Urination disorders and problems with natural needs

It is believed that problems with going to the toilet are also signs of approaching death. No matter how ridiculous it may seem, but in reality there is a completely logical chain in this. If a bowel movement is not carried out every two days or with the regularity to which a person is accustomed, then feces accumulate in the intestines. Even stones can form. As a result, toxins are absorbed from them, which seriously poison the body and reduce its performance.

Roughly the same story with urination. The kidneys are harder to work. They pass less and less fluid and as a result, urine comes out saturated. It has a high concentration of acids and even blood is noted. For relief, a catheter can be installed, but this is not a panacea against the general background of unpleasant consequences for a bedridden patient.

Problems with thermoregulation

Natural signs before the death of the patient are a violation of thermoregulation and agony. The extremities begin to get very cold. Especially if the patient has paralysis, then we can even talk about the progress of the disease. The circle of blood circulation is reduced. The body fights for life and tries to maintain the efficiency of the main organs, thereby depriving the limbs. They can turn pale and even become cyanotic with venous spots.

Weakness of the body

Signs of imminent death can be different for everyone, depending on the situation. But most often, we are talking about severe weakness, weight loss and general fatigue. There comes a period of self-isolation, which is aggravated by internal processes of intoxication and necrosis. The patient cannot even raise his hand or stand on a duck for natural needs. The process of urination and defecation can occur spontaneously and even unconsciously.

Clouded mind

Many see signs of impending death in the disappearance of the patient's normal reaction to the world around him. He can become aggressive, nervous, or vice versa - very passive. Memory disappears and attacks of fear on this basis may be noted. The patient does not immediately understand what is happening and who is nearby. In the brain, the areas responsible for thinking die off. And there may be obvious inadequacy.

Predagony

This is a protective reaction of all vital systems in the body. Often, it is expressed in the onset of stupor or coma. The main role is played by the regression of the nervous system, which causes in the future:

Decreased metabolism

Insufficient ventilation of the lungs due to respiratory failures or alternating rapid breathing with stopping

Serious tissue damage

Agony

Agony is usually called a clear improvement in the patient's condition against the background of destructive processes in the body. In fact, this is the last effort in order to maintain the necessary functions for the continuation of existence. It may be noted:

Hearing improvement and vision recovery

Establishing the rhythm of breathing

Normalization of heart contractions

Restoration of consciousness in the patient

Muscle activity by type of cramps

Decreased sensitivity to pain

The agony can last from a few minutes to an hour. Usually, it seems to portend clinical death, when the brain is still alive, and oxygen stops flowing into the tissues.

These are typical signs of death in bedridden patients. But don't dwell too much on them. After all, there may be another side of the coin. It happens that one or two of these signs are simply a consequence of the disease, but they are quite reversible with proper care. Even a hopelessly bedridden patient may not have all these signs before death. And this is not an indicator. So, it is difficult to talk about mandatory, as well as to put death sentences.

Lying patient: signs before death. Changes with a person before death

If there is a bedridden patient in the house who is in serious condition, then it does not prevent relatives from knowing the signs of impending death in order to be well prepared. The process of dying can take place not only in the physical, but also in the mental plane. Given the fact that each person is individual, then each patient will have their own signs, but still there are some general symptoms that will indicate the imminent end of a person's life path.

What can a person feel as death approaches?

This is not about the person for whom death is sudden, but about patients who are ill for a long time and are bedridden. As a rule, such patients can experience mental anguish for a long time, because being in their right mind, a person perfectly understands what he has to go through. A dying person constantly feels on himself all the changes that occur with his body. And all this eventually contributes to a constant change of mood, as well as the loss of mental balance.

Most bedridden patients close in on themselves. They begin to sleep a lot, and remain indifferent to everything that happens around them. There are also frequent cases when, just before death, the health of patients suddenly improves, but after a while the body becomes even weaker, followed by the failure of all vital body functions.

Signs of imminent death

It is impossible to predict the exact time of departure to another world, but it is quite possible to pay attention to the signs of impending death. Consider the main symptoms that may indicate an imminent death:

1. The patient loses his energy, sleeps a lot, and the periods of wakefulness become shorter and shorter each time. Sometimes a person can sleep for a whole day and stay awake for only a couple of hours.
2. Breathing changes, the patient may breathe either too quickly or too slowly. In some cases, it may even seem that the person has completely stopped breathing for a while.
3. He loses his hearing and vision, and sometimes hallucinations can occur. During such periods, the patient may hear or see things that are not actually happening. You can often see how he talks to people who have long been dead.
4. A bedridden patient loses his appetite, while he not only stops eating protein foods, but also refuses to drink. In order to somehow let moisture seep into his mouth, you can dip a special sponge into the water and moisten his dry lips with it.
5. The color of urine changes, it becomes dark brown or even dark red, while its smell becomes very sharp and toxic.
6. Body temperature often changes, it can be high, and then drop sharply.
7. An elderly bedridden patient can get lost in time.

Of course, the pain of loved ones from the imminent loss of a loved one cannot be extinguished, but it is still possible to prepare and set yourself up psychologically.

What does drowsiness and weakness of a bedridden patient indicate?

When death approaches, the bedridden patient begins to sleep a lot, and the point is not that he feels very tired, but that it is simply difficult for such a person to wake up. The patient is often in deep sleep, so his reaction is inhibited. This state is close to a coma. The manifestation of excessive weakness and drowsiness naturally slows down some of the physiological abilities of a person, so in order to roll over from one side to the other or go to the toilet, he will need help.

What changes occur in respiratory function?

Relatives who care for the patient may notice how his rapid breathing will sometimes be replaced by breathlessness. And over time, the patient's breathing can become wet and stagnant, because of this, wheezing will be heard when inhaling or exhaling. It arises from the fact that fluid collects in the lungs, which is no longer naturally removed by coughing.

Sometimes it helps the patient that he is turned from one side to the other, then the liquid can come out of the mouth. Some patients are prescribed oxygen therapy to relieve suffering, but it does not prolong life.

How do vision and hearing change?

Minute clouding of consciousness in severe patients can be directly related to changes in vision and hearing. Often this happens in their last weeks of life, for example, they stop seeing and hearing well, or, on the contrary, they hear things that no one else can hear except them.

The most common are visual hallucinations just before death, when it seems to a person that someone is calling him or he sees someone. Doctors in this case recommend agreeing with the dying person in order to somehow cheer him up, you should not deny what the patient sees or hears, otherwise it can greatly upset him.

How does appetite change?

In a lying patient, before death, the metabolic process may be underestimated, it is for this reason that he ceases to want to eat and drink.

Naturally, to support the body, one should still give the patient at least some nutritious food, therefore it is recommended to feed the person in small portions, while he himself is able to swallow. And when this ability is lost, then you can’t do without droppers.

What changes occur in the bladder and intestines before death?

Signs of imminent death of the patient are directly related to changes in the functioning of the kidneys and intestines. The kidneys stop producing urine, so it becomes dark brown, because the filtration process is disrupted. A small amount of urine can contain a huge amount of toxins that adversely affect the entire body.

Such changes can lead to a complete failure of the kidneys, a person falls into a coma and dies after a while. Due to the fact that the appetite also decreases, changes occur in the intestine itself. The stool becomes hard, so there is constipation. The patient needs to alleviate the condition, so relatives who care for him are advised to give the patient an enema every three days or make sure that he takes a laxative on time.

How does body temperature change?

If there is a bed patient in the house, the signs before death can be very diverse. Relatives may notice that a person's body temperature is constantly changing. This is due to the fact that the part of the brain that is responsible for thermoregulation may not function well.

At some point, body temperature can rise to 39 degrees, but after half an hour it can drop significantly. Naturally, in this case, it will be necessary to give the patient antipyretic drugs, most often using Ibuprofen or Aspirin. If the patient does not have the function of swallowing, then you can put antipyretic candles or give an injection.

Before death itself, the temperature instantly drops, the hands and feet become cold, and the skin in these areas becomes covered with red spots.

Why does a person's mood often change before death?

A dying person, without realizing it, gradually prepares himself for death. He has enough time to analyze his whole life and draw conclusions about what was done right or wrong. It seems to the patient that everything he says is misinterpreted by his relatives and friends, so he begins to withdraw into himself and ceases to communicate with others.

In many cases, clouding of consciousness occurs, so a person can remember everything that happened to him a long time ago in the smallest details, but he will not remember what happened an hour ago. It is scary when such a state reaches psychosis, in which case it is necessary to consult a doctor who can prescribe sedative drugs to the patient.

How to help a dying person relieve physical pain?

A bedridden patient after a stroke or a person who has become incapacitated due to another disease may experience severe pain. In order to somehow alleviate his suffering, it is necessary to use painkillers.

Painkillers may be prescribed by a doctor. And if the patient does not have any problems with swallowing, then the drugs can be in the form of tablets, and in other cases, injections will have to be used.

If a person has a serious illness that is accompanied by severe pain, then it will be necessary to use drugs that are available only on prescription, for example, it can be Fentanyl, Codeine, or Morphine.

To date, there are many drugs that will be effective for pain, some of them are available in the form of drops that drip under the tongue, and sometimes even a patch can provide significant assistance to the patient. There is a category of people who are very cautious about painkillers, citing the fact that addiction can occur. To avoid dependence, as soon as a person begins to feel better, you can stop taking the drug for a while.

Emotional stress experienced by the dying

Changes with a person before death concern not only his physical health, but also affect his psychological state. If a person experiences a little stress, then this is normal, but if the stress drags on for a long time, then most likely it is a deep depression that a person experiences before death. The fact is that everyone can have their own emotional experiences, and there will be their own signs before death.

A bedridden patient will experience not only physical pain, but also mental pain, which will have an extremely negative impact on his general condition and will bring the moment of death closer.

But even if a person has a fatal disease, relatives should try to cure the depression of their loved one. In this case, the doctor may prescribe antidepressants or consult a psychologist. This is a natural process when a person becomes discouraged, knowing that he has very little left to live in the world, so relatives should in every possible way distract the patient from sorrowful thoughts.

Additional symptoms before death

It should be noted that there are different signs before death. A bedridden patient may feel those symptoms that are not defined in others. For example, some patients often complain of constant nausea and vomiting, although their disease is not related to the gastrointestinal tract. Such a process is easily explained by the fact that due to the disease the body becomes weaker and cannot cope with the digestion of food, this may cause certain problems with the work of the stomach.

In this case, relatives will need to seek help from a doctor who can prescribe medications that alleviate this condition. For example, with persistent constipation, it will be possible to use a laxative, and for nausea, other effective drugs are prescribed that will dull this unpleasant feeling.

Naturally, not a single such drug can save a life and prolong it for an indefinite time, but it is still possible to alleviate the suffering of a dear person, so it would be wrong not to take advantage of such a chance.

How to care for a dying relative?

To date, there are special means for the care of bedridden patients. With the help of them, the person who cares for the sick, greatly facilitates his work. But the fact is that the dying person requires not only physical care, but also a lot of attention - he needs constant conversations in order to be distracted from his sad thoughts, and only relatives and friends can provide spiritual conversations.

A sick person should be absolutely calm, and unnecessary stress will only bring the minutes of his death closer. To alleviate the suffering of a relative, it is necessary to seek help from qualified doctors who can prescribe all the necessary drugs to help overcome many unpleasant symptoms.

All the signs listed above are common, and it should be remembered that each person is individual, which means that the body in different situations can behave differently. And if there is a bedridden patient in the house, his signs before death may turn out to be completely unforeseen for you, since everything depends on the disease and on the individuality of the organism.

Signs of the approaching death of an elderly person

The article will give you mixed feelings. On the one hand, mental anguish and suffering. On the other hand, a clear understanding of what remains to be experienced. Of course, nothing can replace or muffle the pain of losing a loved one. After reading the note, you at least mentally prepare for this.

How does a dying person feel?

On the threshold of death, many things change. Both physically and emotionally. But, like everything in our life individually, the onset of death is also purely personal.

This cannot be predicted or changed. But there are similar symptoms, regardless of pre-existing illnesses, that all older people experience.

10 signs of impending death

1. Drowsiness and weakness in the body
2. A person sees and hears what others do not notice
3. Weak, shortness of breath
4. Urine turns dark red or brown
5. Chair problems
6. Appetite disappears
7. Body temperature fluctuates from too high to extremely low
8. Changes in mood and feelings
9. Legs swell
10. Venous spots occur (especially on the soles of the feet)

Let's talk about each of the points in more detail.

Constant sleepiness and weakness in the body

The period of wakefulness is reduced, the metabolism slows down. When you hibernate, your body tries to protect itself from dehydration and fatigue. Therefore, an elderly person constantly tends to sleep. At the same time, sleep is deep, without any reaction. It's getting harder to wake up in the morning.

Don't wake up the person. Let him sleep as much as his body requires. Moreover, even while in deep sleep, he hears and remembers your words.

Visual and auditory hallucinations

Seeing and hearing what others do not notice is quite normal in this situation. There is nothing mysterious or suspicious here. In addition, hallucinations can affect the organs of vision, smell, tactile and taste senses.

The breath changes

Becomes intermittent, wet, noisy and stagnant. Stops more and more. There are wheezing. Doctors usually recommend oxygen therapy to alleviate suffering.

Urine color change and stool problems

In the body of an elderly person, there is a catastrophic lack of water. The water balance is broken. Hence the rare trips to the toilet and problems with the kidneys. As a result, urine becomes concentrated. It darkens and decreases in number.

Constipation is connected to this. It is increasingly difficult for a person to go to the toilet without additional stimulation.

Lack of appetite

As mentioned above, metabolic processes slow down. This is reflected in the desire to eat. Or rather, its absence. Less and less thirsty. Food is difficult to swallow. To quench your thirst, you can moisten your mouth with a damp cloth. But in no case do not try to force feed. Nothing good will come of it.

Temperature changes

A fairly common sign of approaching death. So, during the day, body temperature can vary from too high to critically low.

This is due to disruption of the part of the brain responsible for thermoregulation. Hence, hands and feet get cold. The skin changes color.

Rubbing the body with a cool or warm towel will relieve suffering. Or, alternatively, you can give one of the following medicines:

If the tablets are painful to swallow, purchase them in the form of rectal suppositories.

Uncontrolled emotions

Along with physical changes, mood swings are also quite common. Some completely withdraw into themselves, avoid communication with loved ones. Others, on the contrary, are immersed in warm and pleasant memories. Describe them down to the smallest detail. But ask about recent events and they won't be able to answer you.

There are also those who communicate with dead people.

In some cases, emotional changes reach psychosis.

Swelling of the legs

This symptom is caused by poor kidney function. Instead of removing fluid, they accumulate it in the body. Usually in the legs.

Venous spots on the body

On the body of a dying person, especially on the soles of the feet, venous spots of a red or blue hue appear. It is caused by slow blood circulation.

And in conclusion

No matter how hard it is for you to remember, it is even more difficult for an elderly person on the verge of death, in every sense. Pull yourself together! You cannot change what is beyond your control. But you can surround your loved one with care, love and home warmth.

healthy aging

If you are dying or caring for a dying person, you may have questions about how the process of dying will be physically and emotionally. The following information will help you answer some questions.

Signs of approaching death

The process of dying is as diverse (individual) as the process of birth. It is impossible to predict the exact time of death, and how exactly a person will die. But people who are on the verge of death experience many of the same symptoms, regardless of the type of disease.

As death approaches, a person may experience some physical and emotional changes, such as:

A dying person may experience other symptoms, depending on the disease. Talk to your doctor about what to expect. You can also contact the Terminally Ill Assistance Program, where they will answer all your questions regarding the process of dying. The more you and your loved ones know, the more prepared you will be for this moment.

As death approaches, a person sleeps more, and it becomes more and more difficult to wake up. The periods of wakefulness become shorter and shorter.

As death approaches, the people who care for you will notice that you are unresponsive and that you are in a very deep sleep. This state is called a coma. If you are in a coma, then you will be bed-bound and all your physiological needs (bathing, turning, feeding and urinating) will have to be controlled by someone else.

General weakness is a very common phenomenon with the approach of death. It is normal for a person to need help with walking, bathing, and going to the toilet. Over time, you may need help to roll over in bed. Medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers or a hospital bed can be very helpful during this period. This equipment can be rented from a hospital or terminally ill center.

As death approaches, periods of rapid breathing may be replaced by periods of breathlessness.

Your breath may become wet and stagnant. This is called "death rattle". Changes in breathing usually happen when you are weak and the normal secretions from your airways and lungs cannot get out.

Although noisy breathing may be a signal to your loved ones, you will most likely not feel pain and notice congestion. Since the fluid is deep in the lungs, it is difficult to remove it from there. Your doctor may prescribe oral tablets (atropines) or patches (scopolamine) to relieve congestion.

Your loved ones may turn you on the other side so that the discharge comes out of the mouth. They can also wipe these secretions with a damp cloth or special swabs (you can ask at the help center for the terminally ill or buy them at pharmacies).

Your doctor may prescribe oxygen therapy to help relieve your shortness of breath. Oxygen therapy will make you feel better, but will not prolong your life.

Visual impairment is very common in the last weeks of life. You may notice that you have trouble seeing. You may see or hear things that no one else notices (hallucinations). Visual hallucinations are common before death.

If you are caring for a dying person who is hallucinating, you need to cheer him up. Recognize what the person sees. Denial of hallucinations can upset the dying person. Talk to the person, even if he or she is in a coma. It is known that dying people can hear even when they are in a deep coma. People who came out of a coma said that they could hear all the time while they were in a coma.

Hallucinations are the perception of something that is not really there. Hallucinations can involve all of the senses: hearing, sight, smell, taste, or touch.

The most common hallucinations are visual and auditory. For example, a person may hear voices or see objects that the other person cannot see.

Other types of hallucinations include gustatory, olfactory, and tactile hallucinations.

Treatment for hallucinations depends on their cause.

As death approaches, you are likely to eat and drink less. This is due to a general feeling of weakness and a slower metabolism.

Since nutrition is so important in society, it will be difficult for your family and friends to watch you not eat anything. However, metabolic changes mean you don't need the same amount of food and fluids as you used to.

You can eat small meals and liquids while you are active and able to swallow. If swallowing is a problem for you, thirst can be prevented by moistening your mouth with a damp cloth or a special swab (available at a pharmacy) dipped in water.

Often the kidneys gradually stop producing urine as death approaches. As a result, your urine turns dark brown or dark red. This is due to the inability of the kidneys to properly filter urine. As a result, urine becomes very concentrated. Also, its number is decreasing.

As appetite decreases, some changes also occur in the intestines. The stool becomes harder and more difficult to pass (constipation) as the person takes in less fluid and becomes weaker.

You should tell your doctor if you have bowel movements less than once every three days, or if bowel movements are uncomfortable. Stool softeners may be recommended to prevent constipation. You can also use an enema to cleanse the colon.

As you become more and more weak, it is natural that you find it difficult to control your bladder and bowels. A urinary catheter may be placed in your bladder as a means of continuous drainage of urine. Also, the terminally ill program can provide toilet paper or underwear (these are also available at the pharmacy).

As death approaches, the part of the brain responsible for regulating body temperature begins to malfunction. You may have a high temperature, and in a minute you will be cold. Your hands and feet may feel very cold to the touch and may even turn pale and blotchy. Changes in skin color are called patchy skin lesions and are very common in the last days or hours of life.

Your caregiver can control your temperature by wiping your skin with a damp, slightly warm washcloth or by giving you medications such as:

Many of these medicines are available as rectal suppositories if you have difficulty swallowing.

Just as your body prepares physically for death, you must also prepare emotionally and mentally for it.

As death approaches, you may lose interest in the world around you and certain details of everyday life, such as the date or time. You can close in on yourself and communicate less with people. You may want to communicate with only a few people. This introspection can be a way of saying goodbye to everything you knew.

In the days leading up to death, you may enter a state of unique conscious awareness and communication that may be misinterpreted by your loved ones. You can say that you need to go somewhere - "go home" or "go somewhere". The meaning of such conversations is unknown, but some people think that such conversations help prepare for death.

Events from your recent past can mix with distant events. You can remember very old events in great detail, but not remember what happened an hour ago.

You can think of people who have already died. You may say that you have heard or seen someone who has already died. Your loved ones can hear you talking to the deceased person.

If you are caring for a dying person, you may be upset or frightened by this strange behavior. You may want to bring your loved one back to reality. If this kind of communication is bothering you, talk to your doctor to better understand what's going on. Your loved one may fall into a state of psychosis, and it may be scary for you to watch it. Psychosis occurs in many people before death. It may have a single cause or be the result of several factors. Reasons may include:

Symptoms may include:

Sometimes delirium tremens can be prevented with alternative medicine, such as relaxation and breathing techniques, and other methods that reduce the need for sedatives.

Palliative care can help you relieve physical symptoms associated with your condition, such as nausea or difficulty breathing. Controlling pain and other symptoms is an important part of your treatment and improving your quality of life.

How often a person feels pain depends on their condition. Some deadly diseases, such as bone cancer or pancreatic cancer, can be accompanied by severe physical pain.

A person may be so afraid of pain and other physical symptoms that they may consider suicide with the assistance of a doctor. But death pain can be effectively dealt with. You should tell your doctor and loved ones about any pain. There are many medications and alternative methods (such as massage) that can help you deal with the pain of death. Be sure to ask for help. Ask a loved one to report your pain to the doctor if you are unable to do so yourself.

You may want your family not to see you suffer. But it is very important to tell them about your pain, if you cannot stand it, so that they immediately consult a doctor.

Spirituality means a person's awareness of the purpose and meaning of his life. It also denotes a person's relationship with higher forces or energy, which gives meaning to life.

Some people don't often think about spirituality. For others, it's part of everyday life. As you approach the end of your life, you may be faced with your own spiritual questions and concerns. Being associated with religion often helps some people achieve comfort before death. Other people find solace in nature, in social work, strengthening relationships with loved ones, or in creating new relationships. Think of things that can give you peace and support. What questions concern you? Seek support from friends, family, relevant programs, and spiritual guides.

Caring for a dying relative

Physician-assisted suicide refers to the practice of medical assistance to a person who voluntarily wishes to die. This is usually done by prescribing a lethal dose of medication. Although the doctor is indirectly involved in the death of a person, he is not a direct cause of it. Oregon is currently the only state to legalize physician-assisted suicide.

A person with a terminal illness may consider suicide with the assistance of a doctor. Among the factors that can cause such a decision are severe pain, depression and fear of dependence on other people. A dying person may consider himself a burden for his loved ones and not understand that his relatives want to provide him with their help, as an expression of love and sympathy.

Often, a person with a terminal illness contemplates physician-assisted suicide when their physical or emotional symptoms do not receive effective treatment. Symptoms associated with the dying process (such as pain, depression, or nausea) can be controlled. Talk to your doctor and family about your symptoms, especially if these symptoms bother you so much that you think about death.

Pain and symptom control at the end of life

At the end of life, pain and other symptoms can be effectively managed. Talk to your doctor and loved ones about the symptoms you are experiencing. The family is an important link between you and your doctor. If you yourself cannot communicate with the doctor, your loved one can do this for you. There is always something you can do to ease your pain and symptoms so that you feel comfortable.

There are many pain relievers available. Your doctor will choose the easiest and most non-traumatic drug for pain relief. Oral medications are usually used first because they are easier to take and less expensive. If your pain is not acute, pain medications can be bought without a doctor's prescription. These are drugs such as acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen. It is important to stay ahead of your pain and take your medications on schedule. Irregular use of medications is often the cause of ineffective treatment.

Sometimes pain cannot be controlled with over-the-counter medications. In this case, more effective forms of treatment are needed. The doctor may prescribe pain medications such as codeine, morphine, or fentanyl. These drugs can be combined with others, such as antidepressants, to help you get rid of the pain.

If you cannot take pills, there are other forms of treatment. If you have trouble swallowing, you can use liquid medicines. Also, drugs can be in the form of:

Many people who suffer from severe pain fear that they will become addicted to pain medications. However, addiction rarely occurs in terminally ill people. If your condition improves, you can slowly stop taking the medicine so that dependence does not develop.

Painkillers can be used to manage the pain and help keep it tolerable. But sometimes painkillers cause drowsiness. You can only take a small amount of medication and endure a little pain and still be active. On the other hand, weakness may not matter much to you and you are not bothered by drowsiness caused by certain medications.

The main thing is to take medicines on a certain schedule, and not just when the need arises. But even if you take medication regularly, sometimes you may feel severe pain. This is called "pain breakouts". Talk to your doctor about what medications should be on hand to help manage breakouts. And always tell your doctor if you stop taking a medicine. Sudden cessation can cause serious side effects and severe pain. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage pain without medication. Alternative medical therapies can help some people relax and relieve pain. You can combine traditional treatment with alternative methods such as:

For more information, see the Chronic Pain section.

During the period when you learn to cope with your illness, a short emotional stress is normal. Non-depression that lasts more than 2 weeks is no longer normal and should be reported to your doctor. Depression can be cured, even if you have a terminal illness. Antidepressants combined with psychological counseling will help you cope with emotional distress.

Talk to your doctor and family about your emotional stress. While grief is a natural part of the process of dying, it doesn't mean you have to endure serious emotional pain. Emotional suffering can exacerbate physical pain. They can also reflect badly on your relationships with loved ones and prevent you from saying goodbye to them properly.

As death approaches, you may experience other symptoms as well. Talk to your doctor about any symptoms you may have. Symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, constipation, or shortness of breath can be managed with medication, special diets, and oxygen therapy. Have a friend or family member describe all of your symptoms to a doctor or terminally ill worker. It is helpful to keep a journal and write down all your symptoms there.

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