The prospect of death can be a very scary one for many people out there.
Whether it's the heartbreak of grieving a loved one or the worry of what will happen when we take our last breath - the subject is definitely something many understandably decide to steer clear from.
With that said, however, a bunch of people are extremely curious about what happens when we pass.
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So, to help provide a little more information on the macabre fact of life, medical experts have revealed the 11 signs to look out for that could mean death is soon approaching.
But, before we get into the list, it's important to note that this list refers specifically to those who are already terminally ill so don't fret if one or several signs sound familiar to you - you're not dying.
Decreasing appetite
According to Medical News Today, those nearing the end of their life become 'less active' which, in turn, means their body requires less energy.
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Because of this, they may stop eating or drinking as much as they previously did.
Some may even stop eating altogether before they die, with the experts advising to 'help keep their lips moistened with lip balm' so that they are not uncomfortable.
Sleeping more
Those receiving palliative care may also spend less time awake and more time sleeping.
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Those close to such individuals should make them comfortable and 'let them sleep' and should also help them change position in bed 'every one to two hours'.
"Hearing is often the last sense that a person loses, so continuing to speak to them in a calm, quiet voice can provide reassurance," the experts add.
Changing toilet habits
If a terminally ill patient is eating and drinking less, their toilet habits may follow suit.
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While changes like a reduction in bowel movements and urinating less frequently 'are to be expected' - they can still be 'distressing to witness in a loved one'.
Weakening muscles
A dying person's muscles may also become weaker meaning that they may find it harder to do things like turning over in bed or drinking from a cup than they were able to do previously.
"If this happens to a dying person, their loved ones should help them lift things or turn over in bed," the experts advise.
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Changing vital signs
There are four vital signs that may also change when a person approaches death:
- Blood pressure drops
- Breathing changes
- Heartbeat becomes fast, faint, or irregular
- A pulse may be hard to find
Dropping body temperature
Body circulation also reduces in the days leading up to a person's death as blood
is 'focused on their internal organs'.
"This means very little blood flows to their hands, feet, or legs," Medical News Today explains.
Because of this, their skin will be 'cold to the touch' and may also look 'pale or mottled with blue and purple patches'.
Changing breathing
You may notice a person who is dying seeming to have difficulty breathing as it may change speed and they may make 'grunting' or 'gurgling' noises.
If this happens, the experts suggest finding a position that 'makes breathing easier for the person'.
Increasing pain
Pain levels may also increase - something that can be difficult in family members and loved ones will understandably find difficult when seeing a 'pained expression' or 'hearing a noise that sounds pained is never easy'.
Becoming less social
"As a dying person’s energy levels reduce, they may not be able to spend as much time with other people as they once did," the experts explain.
They add that instead of being 'offended' if a dying person decides to withdraw from socialising, their loved ones should instead 'arrange visits when the person dying is up to seeing someone'.
Experiencing confusion
Those close to dying may become confused or incoherent at times, with the experts outlining: "This may happen if they lose track of what is happening around them."
To navigate this, those caring for the individual should 'make sure to keep talking with them' as 'explaining what is happening around them and introducing each visitor is important'.
Hallucinations
And the final sign is experiencing 'hallucinations' or 'distorted visions'.
Medical News Today assures: "Although this may seem concerning, it is important not to cause additional distress.
"It may help to remind the person of the time of the day, what is happening, and who is with them."
According to the experts, 'calm, confident tones' can help 'reduce the risk of startling the patient'.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.
Rhiannon Ingle