When someone is unwell with a life-limiting or terminal condition, it can cause various uncomfortable symptoms. Here are some ways you can ease these.
Dry Mouth
If someone has a dry mouth, encourage the use of sugar free chewing gum, increase fluids or encourage sucking flavoured or plain ice.
Eating and drinking
When someone is unwell, smaller, more frequent meals and preparing food that’s wanted when it’s wanted is often better accepted. Where possible, encourage someone to sit upright to eat. You may also want to ask your GP about food supplements.
Feeling sick
If someone is struggling with nausea or vomiting, make sure any anti-sickness medications are taken and give them small sips of fluid or ice cubes to suck. Keep the person cool, consider using a fan or offering a cool flannel on the forehead.
Breathlessness
Breathlessness is the sensation of not being able to get enough air. It can be a very frightening feeling. If you or someone you are caring for is feeling breathless, try to stay calm and focus on slow breaths out. Sometimes distraction, like watching the TV or listening to music or ventilating the room can help.
Mobility
At home, make sure your space is as uncluttered as possible. A walking aid, such as a stick or frame, may help people to maintain their mobility and improve confidence and is much safer than holding onto furniture or other people. Make sure any clothes aren’t too long and that any footwear is secure enclosing the whole foot.
Pain
Ensure painkillers are taken regularly and keep a diary of what does and doesn’t help your pain to share with your clinical teams. Try gentle massage, heat pads and relaxation techniques to help ease pain. If your pain is worsening remember you can call St Catherine’s advice line and speak to a nurse.
How to help as someone’s death approaches
If you’re with someone who is dying, you can offer them comfort through gentle touch and by talking to them. They should be able to hear you as it’s thought that hearing is the last sense to be lost. Use special swabs or very soft toothbrushes to moisten and cleanse their mouth and keep their lips moistened with lip balm.
Sometimes people wait until you leave the room to die and if this happens you shouldn’t feel guilty. Remember, we’re here to support you from the moment someone you love is referred to our hospice, until their last days of life, and beyond.
