As a person dies, many different physiological changes present as signs and symptoms. Each one can be alarming if it is not understood. To control each symptom effectively, physicians need to have an understanding of:
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The symptom's cause
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The underlying pathophysiology
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The appropriate pharmacology to use
Commonly encountered physiological changes during the dying process include:
Weakness/Fatigue
Decreasing Appetite/Food Intake, Wasting
Decreasing Fluid Intake, Dehydration
Decreasing Blood Perfusion, Renal Failure
Neurological Dysfunction: An Overview
Pain
Loss of Ability to Close Eyes
Changes in Medication Needs