3 Symptoms That Often Appear 24 Hours Towards The End Of Life

Male illustration at the hospital (Photo: Freepik/Freepij)

JAKARTA - Towards the end of life, the human body undergoes changes which are a sign that life is approaching the last point. The last 24 hours before death are often characterized by certain symptoms. Understanding this can help families provide support, comfort, and maintain the dignity of loved ones.

According to the Hospice Foundation of America and the National Cancer Institute, these signs are not something scary, but a natural part of the body's process that is preparing to stop. Here are 3 symptoms that often appear 24 hours before death, as reported by the Times of India page.

1. Indigenous Breathing Pattern

Respiratory changes are the most common visible symptoms. Breath can be shallow, slow, even heavy sometimes. The Cheyne-Stokes breath pattern often appears, namely fast and deep breath which then pauses before starting again.

According to a Hospice Foundation of America report, this respiratory pattern can indeed seem worrying for those who witness it. However, in fact, this rarely causes pain. Often people who are in this phase are not fully aware of it, so they don't feel the discomfort we imagine.

2. Changes in the Skin and Body Temperature

As the heart slows down, blood circulation decreases. As a result, the body concentrates blood flow on vital organs. This condition creates several changes that can be clearly seen:

- The skin looks mottling (grainy-like marble) in the hands, feet, or knees

- The body's ends such as the hands and feet feel cold

- Lips, nails, or blue or purplish fingers

According to the Hospice Foundation of America, this sign does not mean suffering, but rather a part of the body that is saving energy. This is the body's natural process when slowly stops functioning.

3. Decreased Response And Attractive

In the last 24 hours, people who are approaching death are usually becoming increasingly non-responsive. Symptoms include:

- No longer speaking or responding to voice

- Close your eyes more often

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Research from the National Cancer Institute states that this condition does not mean they reject those closest to them. The body and mind are focusing inward to prepare for a transition. Even so, hearing is usually the last missing sense. Therefore, speaking gently or touching their hands can still provide peace of mind.