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can anyone tell me what to watch for to see the end is near in a cancer patient. The doctors aren't saying much except to do what needs to be said and done and he is getting so bad. I want to be prepared.

2006-10-23 15:17:45 · 6 answers · asked by Martha S 4 in Health Diseases & Conditions Cancer

6 answers

If it is possible you might consider contacting hospice care so that they may guide you through this process.

No one really knows exactly when anyone will die, even cancer patients. The last days of life can be different for every patient. However, there are some 'physical signs' that the end of life is close.

1. Drowsiness, increased sleep, and/or unresponsiveness (caused by changes in the patient's metabolism).

2. Confusion about time, place, and/or identity of loved ones; restlessness; visions of people and places that are not present; pulling at bed linens or clothing (caused in part by changes in the patient's metabolism).

3. Decreased socialization and withdrawal (caused by decreased oxygen to the brain, decreased blood flow, and mental preparation for dying).

4. Decreased need for food and fluids, and loss of appetite (caused by the body's need to conserve energy and its decreasing ability to use food and fluids properly).

5. Loss of bladder or bowel control (caused by the relaxing of muscles in the pelvic area).

6. Darkened urine or decreased amount of urine (caused by slowing of kidney function and/or decreased fluid intake).

7. Skin becomes cool to the touch, particularly the hands and feet; skin may become bluish in color, especially on the underside of the body (caused by decreased circulation to the extremities).

8. Rattling or gurgling sounds while breathing, which may be loud; breathing that is irregular and shallow; decreased number of breaths per minute; breathing that alternates between rapid and slow (caused by congestion from decreased fluid consumption, a buildup of waste products in the body, and/or a decrease in circulation to the organs).

9. Turning the head toward a light source (caused by decreasing vision).

10. Increased difficulty controlling pain (caused by progression of the disease).

11. Involuntary movements (called myoclonus), changes in heart rate, and loss of reflexes in the legs and arms are additional signs that the end of life is near.

2006-10-23 15:52:51 · answer #1 · answered by Panda 7 · 0 0

I'm so sorry you are in this situation, cancer is an awfull illness that effects not only the sufferer but their extended family as well. Just stay close to this person and let them know you love them.
I watched my mum die of bone cancer and it's not easy to witness.
There are signs that death is imminent, their skin goes grey and there may even be a smell in the room. And as breathing gets harder you may hear what has been described as a death rattle in their throat.
When the time comes you will know. I hope you have some family support at this time. Stay strong, and again I'm so sorry you are going through this.

2006-10-23 15:33:03 · answer #2 · answered by Curious1 3 · 0 0

Sorry to listen to your information. I hate to be the bearer of unhealthy information however you want the data, to not be fluffed round. There is undoubtedly no healing in your aunt at this factor cure will handiest extend the inevitable and she's going to have got to come to a decision wherein she needs the facet results or to experience wat time she has left. I have on no account heard of someone surviving as soon as it's within the liver. I no you must have wish however at a few factor you must see fact and face what's in entrance of you without a denial. I understand i sound harsh however i've lived it and no handiest too good. My Mum (who's 60) was once identified in May this yr with kidney melanoma. It was once an terrible surprise as she was once so healthful and joyful. When it was once identified it had already unfold to the liver and lung. She beyond away sept 7. Your aunty's melanoma has already unfold to 2 elements of her frame, with out cure it is going to hold to unfold and kind in different more than a few elements of her frame. In my Mums case the tumours grew to become so colossal they protruded from her frame. it travelled up her neck into her mind and so forth. It was once essentially the most terrible factor to peer your cherished one slip away. I want your loved ones the entire first-rate. xx

2016-09-01 01:43:36 · answer #3 · answered by ? 4 · 0 0

if he did not tell you what going on for sure or how long will last because it could be to late or waiting for the right treatment to match so they can Little more time but keep your eyes on it so remmy be strong because i went thru very rarely time three time in mt family.
remmy always ask the doctor that u are strong and want to know it . there is no excuse!

2006-10-23 15:25:28 · answer #4 · answered by Maria R 2 · 0 0

All you can do is be by that persons side, they probably already know that you have been a great support to them and their demanding needs. You can also hope and Pray that he gets better, because that can also go a long way.

Hope this helps!!!!!

2006-10-23 15:22:03 · answer #5 · answered by Breann 5 · 0 0

there are several things such as eating and drinking decrease , sleeping more , decrease in urine output , confusion , pulling at clothes and covers , body temp drops , seeing and talking to people who have already passed , blood pressure increase or decrease , heart rate changes are a few . you havent mentioned hospice , contact them , let them help , you will be glad you did . i am so sorry for what you are going through and will go through ,,,,,, my thoughts and prayers will be with you all

2006-10-23 15:47:43 · answer #6 · answered by sindi 5 · 1 0

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