Changes in breathing towards the end of life
As someone approaches the end of their life, they may experience changes in their breathing. Everyone is different, so it’s not possible to say exactly what will happen to the person. But there are common changes you might see.
On this page:
Noisy breathing
Some people's breathing becomes loud if mucous has built up in their throat or airways. This may be because they aren’t coughing or clearing their airways. Some people call this the death rattle. It usually happens in the last days or hours of life.
Changing the position that the person is sitting up or lying can help with this. You can ask the doctor or nurse what else might help – they might suggest medicines or gentle suction.
It can be upsetting or worrying for you to hear these noises. But it’s unlikely to be painful or distressing for your loved one.
Breathlessness
Some people feel breathless or short of breath. You might hear this called dyspnoea.
Some people experience this throughout their illness while others experience it in the last weeks, days and hours of life.
It can be worse if the person is anxious, so helping them feel relaxed and reassured may help. The doctor or nurse may give them medicine for breathlessness. They may also advise practical steps to help, like having a fan in the room or opening a window.
Shallow or irregular breathing
As the moment of death comes nearer, the person's breathing may slow down and become irregular. It might stop and then start again or there might be long pauses or stops between breaths. This is sometimes known as Cheyne-Stokes breathing.
What you can do to help
It might be reassuring for the person if you speak calmly to them and hold or stroke their hand gently. Even if someone is unconscious, they may still be able to hear or feel you. You could also read from a book, hum or gently sing to the person.
If you are worried that your loved one is distressed or in pain, speak to their doctor or nurse.
To learn about other changes that can happen at the end of life, read our information about what to expect in the last weeks and days and final moments of life.
Film: Changes to breathing towards the end of life
External websites
Dying Matters – being with someone when they die
About this information
Marie Curie’s Information and Support team has produced this information. It's not intended to replace any advice from health or social care professionals. We suggest that you consult with a qualified professional about your individual circumstances. Read more about how our information is created and how it's used.
Did you find this page useful?
Help us be there for anyone with an illness they're likely to die from by telling us what you think.
If you are completing this survey using a desktop computer, hold down the Ctrl button to select multiple options.
