Changes in breathing As a person nears
death, their breathing may change. It may get fast or become slow and shallow. The person may appear to be breathless.
When they’re near to death, there may be long gaps in a person’s breathing. This isn’t distressing
to the person but is part of the dying process. You can continue to hold their hand and speak to them in a reassuring way.
You may notice loud or soft gurgling noises coming from the person’s chest or throat. This noisy breathing will usually not disturb him or her, although it may be upsetting for you. This type of breathing happens because the person is no longer able to cough or clear their throat. It doesn’t mean the person is in pain or is uncomfortable. Medication can be given to help ease the gurgling sound. It may not always be possible to ease the gurgling sound.
Talk to the healthcare team if you’re worried about the person’s breathing.
Having pain or discomfort You may worry the person you care about is in pain or is uncomfortable. Not everyone experiences pain when they’re dying but some may. The healthcare team will do all they can to make sure the person is comfortable. For example, this could be helping them to change position in bed.
7
When Someone You Care About is Dying in a Nursing Home - What to Expect
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker