October 24th 2024.
Knowing what to expect can bring a sense of comfort, especially when it comes to the topic of death. As a clinical nurse manager at Marie Curie, a leading end of life care charity in the UK, Lucy Dowland has a deep understanding of death and dying. While it may be a taboo subject, it is a reality that we will all face at some point in our lives. Being aware of what to expect can make this daunting prospect feel less overwhelming.
In addition to this, having knowledge and understanding of what others have gone through can also provide a sense of comfort, especially for those who have lost someone close to them. It can help them feel less alone during such a difficult time. According to Lucy, there are five things that people often don't know about passing away, and she wants to demystify this topic by sharing them with us.
One of these things is the "death rattle", which can occur in the last days or hours of a person's life. This is when mucus builds up in their airways, causing their breathing to become loud and noisy. While it may be distressing for loved ones to witness, Lucy assures us that it is not painful for the person who is dying, as they are often unconscious or unaware of it.
As palliative care nurses, Lucy and her colleagues strive to make their patients as comfortable as possible in their final days. However, there is something known as the "terminal surge" that can happen, where a person suddenly has a burst of energy and appears to be their old self again. This can be confusing and emotionally challenging for relatives and caregivers, but understanding this phenomenon can help them prepare for the inevitable.
Another common experience in the lead-up to death is terminal agitation, where a person may become restless and have difficulty finding comfort or relaxation. They may also try to get out of bed or wander. In these situations, finding out what brings them comfort, whether it's repositioning them, playing music, or speaking to them gently, can make a significant difference.
The physical changes that occur in a person's body as they near death can also be unsettling for loved ones. For example, their extremities may feel colder due to a lack of circulation, and their skin may change in colour or appear mottled. These changes can be more noticeable in people with lighter skin tones, but they can also occur in those with darker skin. As a healthcare professional, Lucy has seen these changes many times and wants to assure us that they are a natural part of the dying process.
As the body uses less energy, it is natural for a person's appetite to decrease in the last weeks of their life. They may also experience changes in their tastes or have difficulty swallowing. In some cases, a person may not want to eat at all, and this is perfectly normal. However, if there are concerns about symptom control, there are medicines that can be prescribed to help ease any distress.
It's important to remember that everyone's experience of dying is different, and there is no right or wrong way to go through it. If you have any worries or need support, there is help available. You can reach out to the Marie Curie Support Line for free, where you can speak to someone between 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to 4pm on Saturdays. They can provide practical and clinical information for those living with or caring for someone with a terminal illness.
Marie Curie is also open to hearing your stories and experiences. If you have a story to share, you can get in touch by emailing them. Remember, you are not alone, and there is support available for you and your loved ones during this difficult time.
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