The person’s
breathing may
change.
As a person’s body
becomes less active
in the final stages
of life, they need
less oxygen, and
their breathing may
become shallower.
There may be long
pauses between their
breaths.
Sometimes the person’s breathing may sound noisy or 'rattling'. This is likely to
be because they are
not able to re-absorb
or swallow the normal
fluids in their chest
or throat, which can
cause a rattling sound.
In the very last
moments of life, the
person’s breathing
pattern may change.
Breaths may become
much slower and
quieter before they
stop altogether.
should you be worried?
A change in the
breathing pattern is
a normal part of the
dying process. If the
person is anxious,
their breath rate may
increase a little.
The rattling sound
may be upsetting to
hear, but it does not
seem to cause any
distress to the dying
person. It can be a bit
like snoring – which
affects those who
hear it more than the
person who is making
the sound.
The person does not
usually need extra
oxygen at this stage.
is there anything you can do to help?
If the person is
anxious, sitting with
them so that they
know you are there
may help to reduce
their anxiety.
If the breathing is
very rattly, it may be
helpful to change the
person’s position so
that they are on their
side if they agree
or do not seem too
disturbed by being
moved.
You can ask
to be shown the best
way to move the
person – ask about
sliding sheets.
The doctor or nurse
may also suggest
medication which may
help to reduce the
fluids in their chest
and throat. This is not
always needed, and it
does not always make
a difference.