Breathing changes as death approaches

As death approaches, you may alternate between periods of rapid breathing and periods of no breathing. It is not unusual to stop breathing for over a minute, then take another breath.

As death approaches, your breathing may become moist and congested. This has been called the "death rattle." Breathing changes may result from inflammation of the lungs (pneumonia), a common complication as death approaches. Breathing changes may also develop when you are weak and are no longer able to swallow your saliva, which becomes trapped in your airways and lungs.

Although the noisy breathing may be alarming to your loved ones, you probably will not have pain or be aware of the congestion. Because the fluid is often deep in the lungs, even suctioning may not remove it.

Your loved ones or caregivers can turn you on your side to help the secretions drain from your mouth. Also, your caregivers can remove the secretions frequently from your mouth with a moist washcloth or a special mouth swab (available from hospice or purchased at pharmacies).

Your doctor may prescribe oxygen therapy to help relieve your shortness of breath. Oxygen therapy may help you become more comfortable but will not prolong your life.