A fever in the final stages of life can be concerning for family and caregivers. It is common as the body undergoes significant changes. Understanding why this happens and how to offer comfort can help navigate this sensitive time.
Understanding Fever During the Dying Process
Fever during the dying process can stem from various physiological changes. Infections, like pneumonia or urinary tract infections, are one cause, but not all fevers at the end of life are infection-related. A weakened immune system makes the body susceptible to infections, leading to elevated temperature as it fights pathogens.
Sometimes, fever is not infection-related but due to the body’s natural metabolic and inflammatory responses as it shuts down. This is sometimes called “terminal fever” or “deathbed fever,” describing a rapid temperature increase. This type of fever may result from the body’s decreasing ability to regulate its own temperature.
Certain medications can also induce fever through various metabolic and immune responses. Dehydration can also contribute to an elevated body temperature. Fever often serves as a symptom of the underlying process rather than a standalone illness that needs to be “cured.”
Recognizing Accompanying Signs
Recognizing a fever involves observing several signs. The skin may feel warm to the touch, and the person might appear flushed. Increased sweating can also indicate an elevated temperature.
Other accompanying signs include rapid breathing and restlessness. Delirium or confusion may also be present, sometimes manifesting as disorientation or difficulty recognizing people. Patients may not always express discomfort verbally, making careful observation of physical and behavioral changes important.
Providing Comfort and Care
The primary goal when a person experiences fever at the end of life is to provide comfort, rather than necessarily bringing the temperature down. Practical measures can help alleviate discomfort. Applying cool, moist cloths to the forehead or neck can offer relief.
Adjusting the room temperature and ensuring light bedding are helpful strategies. If appropriate and tolerated, ensuring adequate hydration can support comfort. Medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be administered to reduce fever and ease discomfort, as prescribed or recommended by a healthcare professional.
It is important to consult with the patient’s hospice or medical team regarding specific interventions. They can provide personalized advice and guidance on when and how to administer medications, especially since some may be given rectally if swallowing becomes difficult. The care team helps caregivers understand that the focus is on easing symptoms and maintaining dignity.