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Clinical death, characterized by the cessation of breathing and cardiac activity, is a state in which the brain still functions but vital functions have stopped. Sometimes death appears to come unexpectedly; according to internist Christian Zanartu, however, there are seven signs that announce its approach. It is important that the patient’s relatives do not ignore them and prepare for the events ahead.
Observe the person’s condition
Symptoms can come several weeks, days, or even minutes before the end of life. With the gradual shutting down of vital functions, it is important to watch for the presence of several biological phenomena. One of them is pain. This applies especially to cancer patients, but it does not always occur in the terminal state. When the patient is in the hospital, pain-relieving drugs may be administered.
One of the warning signs can also be shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. The inability to take a deep breath is life-threatening; sometimes the patient feels the need to expel phlegm, but because of their condition this is not possible. The medical team can relieve this symptom by administering oxygen, certain medications, or relaxation techniques performed by the patient. In general, however, it is considered a warning sign of biological death.
Severe anxiety appears
Also pay attention to intense anxiety, which can likewise indicate that the patient is at the threshold of death. Anxiety is usually severe and follows experienced shortness of breath and sharp pain. It is a consequence of the seriously ill patient becoming aware of the approaching death. It is an immediate human reflex that cannot be greatly influenced. Body temperature often changes; the limbs may be colder. Fever is usually a sign of failure of the thermoregulatory center.
Reduced appetite should not be underestimated either. Patients in critical condition or at the natural end of life usually no longer consume food. This is explained by the shutting down of the body’s physical functions, and therefore a lower required intake of calories. At the same time, the person’s metabolism slows down, which only contributes to the discomfort the patient experiences. Slowing and constipation can also occur as a result of some medications. Even at the end of life it is important to add fiber to food and to consume increased amounts of water to speed up digestion.
Nausea and pronounced fatigue
Nausea or vomiting can be attributed to the use of medications in the hospital, or even in home care. Nausea is potentially a disease in its own right, which can cause sudden death. In the fight against nausea, which can be very distressing for patients at the end of life, relatives or the medical team can limit meal portions, reduce the presence of odors, and frequently ventilate the room where the patient is located.
Up to a month before the death of a patient or an elderly person, pronounced fatigue and lack of energy may occur. This fatigue is characterized by excessive drowsiness or an increased need for sleep. The reason is that the body no longer has enough energy to carry out its life functions. However, this warning sign may also be a consequence of the effects of administered medications. Sometimes unusual insomnia appears before death instead.
Loss of interest in the surrounding world
Hand in hand with the loss of energy goes the loss of previous interests. The dying person withdraws into themselves, has no interest in books or television, or even in the people they used to associate with, and detaches from the outside world. They speak less and less, may be restless in the last days, and unexplained twitching of the limbs or fingers may occur.
