The final stage of death is active dying.
Understanding the Stages of Dying
Before reaching the final moments, there's a process that the body goes through. Here's a breakdown:
- Pre-Active Dying: This stage can last approximately three weeks. During this time, the body begins to slow down. There may be changes in sleep patterns, decreased appetite, and withdrawal from social interactions.
- Active Dying: This is the final phase of the dying process, which typically lasts for about three days. It is characterized by profound physical changes that signify that the person is very close to death.
Characteristics of Active Dying
During the active dying phase, several signs and symptoms become apparent. These include:
- Changes in Breathing: Breathing may become irregular, with periods of shallow breaths or pauses (apnea). Cheyne-Stokes breathing, a pattern of deep breaths followed by periods of no breathing, is common.
- Decreased Consciousness: The individual may become increasingly less responsive, drowsy, or even unconscious.
- Physical Changes:
- Circulatory Changes: Heart rate may increase or decrease. Blood pressure drops and circulation slows, leading to cool extremities.
- Skin Changes: Skin might become pale or bluish due to reduced circulation. Mottling, a patchy discoloration, can also occur.
- Loss of Bowel and Bladder Control: Muscles relax, leading to incontinence.
- Reduced Appetite: Eating and drinking becomes less important.
Key Takeaway
Active dying is the immediate period before death, characterized by significant physical changes and a decline in consciousness, generally lasting about three days according to the information provided. It follows the pre-active phase which occurs during the preceding three weeks.
