Although death is a natural process, it is never easy to witness a loved one go through it. Knowing the signs of impending death may help you prepare both emotionally and physically.

Here are some of the common signs that could indicate someone is nearing the end of their life:.

1. Loss of appetite and thirst

A dying person’s body systems start shutting down, which affects their appetite and thirst. They may have a reduced desire to eat and drink and their body may not be able to process food and fluids in the same way.

This can further weaken the body’s systems, causing a vicious cycle of decreased appetite and thirst.

2. Changes in sleep patterns

A dying person’s body is going through tremendous changes that can disrupt their sleep patterns. They may sleep more or less, have difficulty staying asleep, or experience more frequent awakenings.

Fatigue can also be a factor, making it difficult for the person to stay awake and alert for extended periods of time.

3. Extreme fatigue and weakness

The body uses a lot of energy to fight illness and infections, and as it prepares for death, fatigue and weakness can set in. The person may feel exhausted and unable to do anything more than rest.

They may also feel like their limbs are heavy and difficult to move.

4. Mental confusion or disorientation

The organs in a dying person’s body may start failing, including the brain. As a result, the person may experience confusion, disorientation, or episodes of delirium.

They may not be able to understand what’s happening around them, recognize the people around them, or communicate properly.

5. Shortness of breath

Many people experience difficulty breathing as they near death, often due to fluid buildup in the lungs or other respiratory problems.

Shortness of breath can be distressing and uncomfortable, but there are medications and other interventions that can help to make the person more comfortable.

6. Changes in urine or bowel movements

As the body begins to shut down, the kidneys and other organs may start to failing, which can affect urine output. The person may feel like they need to urinate more or less frequently and have difficulty emptying their bladder.

Similarly, bowel movements may become infrequent or non-existent, which can cause discomfort and bloating.

7. Skin changes

The skin may become cool, clammy, and pale or mottled in the final hours or days of life. The extremities such as the feet and hands may also feel cold to the touch.

This is a result of the body’s circulation slowing down, focusing on keeping the vital organs going.

A person who is nearing death may want to withdraw from social interactions, preferring to be alone or only with close family members.

This could be because they’re feeling physically weak and unwell or simply because they’re mentally preparing themselves for the end of their life.

9. Changes in heart rate and blood pressure

The heart rate and blood pressure may fluctuate erratically or start to decrease as the body prepares for death. The heart may begin to beat more slowly or irregularly, and blood pressure may drop.

This can cause feelings of lightheadedness, dizziness, or nausea.

10. Increased need for pain relief

As the body starts shutting down, a person may experience more pain. It is important for the medical team, in addition to the hospice care staff, to work together with the family to manage the pain of the patient in these times.

Conclusion

End-of-life care is a difficult subject to discuss, but it is important to recognize the signs of impending death so that we can provide comfort and support to our loved ones.

These ten common signs can give you a sense of what to expect as someone approaches the end of their life.