Death is an inevitable part of life. While preparing for the loss of a loved one is challenging, being aware of certain biological processes can help you cope with what you might encounter. One such process is the ‘death rattle’.
According to Healthline, a death rattle is “a crackling, wet sound that may accompany each breath”. It’s a distinct noise that may occur when a person is nearing the end of their life.
The sound can vary, sometimes described as ‘wet’ or crackly, and can differ with each breath.
Healthline states, “Sometimes, the sound is soft and moan-like. Other times it’s loud and sounds like snoring or gargling.” It might even resemble drowning or choking.
However, the website assures there is ‘no evidence’ suggesting the person feels ‘any pain or anxiety’ during this time.
So, what causes the death rattle?
This sound usually happens when a person is ‘in a weakened state or is in and out of consciousness’. They may not be able to swallow or cough effectively, leading to ‘irregular’ or ‘labored’ breathing.
Healthline explains: “They may not be physically strong enough to cough or swallow to clear the secretions from the back of their throat. These secretions include normal saliva and mucus production that people usually swallow and clear without difficulty and may no longer be able to swallow or cough effectively enough to clear their saliva.”
“[…] Their breathing may become irregular, and they may take breaths of varying depths. Sometimes the breathing may be described as ‘labored’, or appears difficult for the person. When they take a deeper breath, the death rattle sounds may be louder because the deeper, more forceful breath is moving against the secretions in the back of the throat.”
While the sound cannot be completely eliminated, there are ways to ‘minimize’ it.
Positioning the person on their side with their head slightly elevated can help, as well as monitoring their oral fluid intake.
Medical professionals may administer certain medicines or use mouth care items to reduce saliva, but Healthline notes: “As a death rattle is often a symptom of the dying process, it may not be possible to eliminate the sound entirely.”
On average, a person may survive ’23 hours after the onset of a death rattle’. This period is crucial for bidding farewell and ensuring you have support in place to help you through the grieving process.
If you have experienced a bereavement and wish to speak with someone in confidence, reach out to The Compassionate Friends at (877) 969-0010.