Before Death, People May Emit an Eerie Sound: Doctor Explains Its Cause

As death approaches, a phenomenon known as the "death rattle" can manifest in some individuals, characterized by a distinct sound originating from fluids accumulating in the respiratory tract. Belgian resident doctor and scientist Paulien Moyaert explained that this sound, which occurs when a person can no longer effectively cough or swallow, is not a scream and does not affect all patients. It typically signals that a person has less than 24 hours to live, with an average survival time of about 23 hours after its onset.

The "death rattle" is often described as a gurgling, moaning, or snoring sound produced during breathing. While it can be unsettling for observers, Moyaert noted that it usually causes no discomfort to the dying individual. "We often administer medications that help reduce the amount of secretions in the airways and suppress the 'death rattle,' but this does not improve the condition of the dying person," she stated. Adjusting the patient's position, such as lying them on their side with their head slightly elevated, can also help manage the sound by facilitating fluid drainage.

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We often administer medications that help reduce the amount of secretions in the airways and suppress the 'death rattle,' but this does not improve the condition of the dying person.

Research indicates that the "death rattle" occurs in approximately 40% of dying individuals, meaning two out of five patients experience it. Medical professionals can attempt to mitigate the sound through medication or by repositioning the patient to aid fluid flow. Other signs of approaching death may include a temporary, unexpected surge of energy, irregular breathing patterns, wheezing, faint pulse, and cold, discolored extremities. In the final moments, the eyes and mouth may remain open as breathing becomes increasingly labored before eventually ceasing.

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So lying the patient on their side, with their head slightly raised, can also help.