What are the 3 stages of death?

There are three main stages of dying: the early stage, the middle stage, and the last stage. These are marked by various changes in responsiveness and functioning. However, it is important to keep mind that the timing of each stage and the symptoms experienced can vary from person to person.

traditionshealth.com - What Are the Three Stages of Dying? - Traditions Health

How old is the youngest bride?

Nujood Ali was just an eight-year-old child when her father arranged for her get married.

Last updated Apr 2, 2022

Will God bring me a spouse?

No. This isn't a promise that's made in the Bible. So rather than expecting God to provide you with a husband or wife, maybe it's time for you to...

Last updated Apr 5, 2020

Do you really know who the “One” is? Your true Soulmate?

Promotion

What are the Three Stages of Dying?

For many people, death is an unfamiliar process. Terminally ill patients and their caregivers may wonder what to expect during this stage and how to make this time more comfortable. Having a better understanding of what happens during this process can help everyone involved to better prepare for this transition and each of the stages of dying.

Three Main Stages of Dying

Early Stage of Dying

In the early stage of dying, a patient will begin eating and drinking markedly less. This period can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

What You Will See

The first sign of this stage of dying will be a noticeable drop in interest in food. For many patients, eating becomes more of a burden than a joy at this point. They may also occasionally choke on their fluids and will start to feel full rather quickly.

What Is Actually Happening

During this stage, the body starts conserving energy and does not need as much nourishment as it did in the past. Although it may be troubling to witness, it does not cause the patient any pain or suffering. This is a natural process where the body shuts down hunger, and artificial feeding at this time does not prevent death and can even lead to physical distress. To provide comfort, loved ones can offer patients bits of food, sips of fluid or ice chips, but it is important to respect the patient’s wishes when it comes to eating and drinking.

Middle Stage of Dying

The middle stage of dying is marked by changes in the patient’s physical appearance that could last a few hours or several days.

Signs You Will Notice

The person will become increasingly less responsive to their surroundings and those around them, to the point where they will eventually become unable to speak or move at all. This is typically seen during the last days of life.

What Is Occurring In Stage Two

As the body’s circulation slows down, blood is reserved for helping major internal organs function. The patient’s hands and feet might feel cold and could become darker in appearance. During this stage, loved ones can offer blankets to increase comfort as the patient’s circulation changes. However, heating pads and electric blankets are not advised because the patient will be unable to judge if they are becoming too hot. The detachment from their surroundings and relationships is the body’s physical and spiritual response to the process of dying and is perfectly normal.

What personality type likes drawing?

INFP. INFPs are often seen as the natural artists of the world, this comes from the fact that they have incredibly creative and vivid minds. Their...

Last updated Apr 10, 2021

Can you have a happy healthy relationship with a narcissist?

Is it ever possible to have a healthy relationship with a narcissist? If we are talking about a person who meets the criteria for NPD listed above,...

Last updated Jul 14, 2019

Promotion

Loved ones should assume the patient can hear everything they say. Experts suggest speaking softly to the patient and touching them gently only if they normally like being touched. This is a good time for prayer or meditation. It is not recommended to ask the patient questions that require answers.

Last Stage of Dying

During the final stage of dying, disorientation and restlessness will grow. There will be significant changes in the patient’s breathing and continence.

What You Will Notice

The patient’s bowel movements may stop entirely, or they may become incontinent. Their breathing may become shallow and irregular, with long pauses that grow frequent as death approaches. There may also be sounds of chest congestion and throat rattling in the last hours.

What Their Bodies Are Doing

The restlessness noted in this stage is attributed to changes in metabolism, while the kidney and bowel functions are affected by decreasing circulation. Relaxing muscles can lead to incontinence. The slowing of blood circulation to internal organs causes the lungs to lose their power to clear out fluids as well as the relaxation of the throat muscles. When a patient enters the final stage of dying, it is helpful to talk to them reassuringly. Again, gentle touch is acceptable if the patient likes being touched. Even when they are not responsive, the patient might be able to hear those around them, so it is important to speak respectfully. Although this can be a distressing time for loved ones, it is best to try to stay calm. Some patients may need medication for restlessness, diapers, a catheter, or underbody pads. At this point, administering oxygen will not help. However, it may be useful to elevate the head of the patient’s bed or use pillows to help lift their head; turning the patient on their side may also increase comfort.

Talk With Hospice Care About the Stages Of Dying

If your loved one has a life-limiting illness, hospice care can help improve their quality of life during their final months. Get in touch with Traditions Health to find out how we can help your family and your loved one physically, emotionally and spiritually each step of the way.

traditionshealth.com - What Are the Three Stages of Dying? - Traditions Health

Can my wife produce milk?

Thanks to an increasing understanding of the human body and its workings, it is possible for non-pregnant women to lactate. Historically, the...

Last updated Apr 9, 2020

What are the things that a covert narcissist can't do?

They lack empathy Lack of empathy, or the ability to feel how another person is feeling, is one of the hallmark characteristics of a narcissist,...

Last updated Nov 8, 2022

Promotion

How do you know he's your soulmate?

In simple terms, a soulmate can be described as someone who is your perfect match because you have such a powerful bond. A soulmate will understand...

Last updated Jun 2, 2020

Promotion

Who follows the 8 minute rule?

Who Follows the Medicare 8-Minute Rule? Any practitioner providing outpatient, in-person services will generally follow the 8-minute rule. Aug 12,...

Last updated Oct 21, 2019