The National Cancer Institute projects that over 155,000 people will die from lung cancer in 2010. End-of-life symptoms of lung cancer relate to the part of the body affected by the cancer. However, lung cancer may spread to the bone, liver and brain. Therefore, general symptoms occur throughout the body that are not just related to lung function. Terminal illness often ends in multiple organ failure, with a decline in metabolism and circulation.
Changes in Circulation
The end stages of lung cancer include slowing of the circulatory system as the organs begin to shut down. The Hospice Foundation of America reports that color changes occur in the skin. Blotching, called mottling, of the legs and arms commonly occurs at the end of life. The temperature of legs and arms also becomes cool as circulation diminishes. Blood pressure slowly lowers.
Changes in Consciousness
Several changes in consciousness occur at the end of life. "Medical Surgical Nursing" lists restlessness as a common symptom. Confusion, hallucinations, picking at the air and clothes may occur. Drowsiness increases as the disease progresses, and patients withdraw and spend more time sleeping. Often at the end of life, the patient drifts into a coma-like state.
Breathing Changes
Several breathing changes take place in the end stage of lung cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, shortness of breath commonly occurs due to the cancer in the lungs. Fluid accumulates in the lungs and causes breathing difficulties. Congestion or gurgling occurs; this is due to the fluid accumulation in the back of the throat. Breathing patterns speed up or slow down. Patients often experience short periods where breathing stops. These periods occur in longer spans as death draws near.
References
- Hospice Foundation of America: Signs of Approaching Death
- National Cancer Institute: Last Days of Life
- "Medical Surgical Nursing"; Ignatavicius, D. MSN, Workman, L. PhD.; 2002
- National Cancer Institute: Cardiopulmonary Syndromes
- National Cancer Institute: Lung Cancer
