There Is One Sound a Person Makes That Often Signals They Have Less Than 24 Hours to Live”

When someone is very close to the end of their life, they might make a specific sound known as the “death rattle.” This sound happens because they can no longer clear fluids like saliva or mucus from their throat. As air moves through these fluids while they breathe, it creates a gurgling or rattling noise.

The death rattle can be unsettling for loved ones to hear, but it is important to understand that the person making the sound is usually not in pain or discomfort. They are often unaware of it because their body is in the final stages of shutting down.

The death rattle usually signals that the person has less than 24 hours to live, though the exact timing can vary. On average, death occurs within 16 to 25 hours after the death rattle starts, but some people may pass away sooner or later than this.

Hearing this sound can be emotional and difficult for family and friends. However, there are ways to manage it to make the environment calmer.

Caregivers might turn the person onto their side, raise their head slightly, or use medications that reduce the buildup of fluids. These steps don’t stop the dying process but can help lessen the sound, making it easier for everyone to focus on comforting the person during their final hours.

The death rattle is a natural part of dying and occurs when the body can no longer function as it normally does.

Understanding this process can help loved ones prepare and find peace in knowing that the person is not suffering. It is a challenging time, but being informed can provide comfort and allow family and friends to focus on being present with their loved one during these final moments.