Common signs include:
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Disorientation
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Memory lapses
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Hallucinations
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Withdrawal
This may result from reduced brain perfusion, medication effects, metabolic imbalance, or neurodegenerative disease progression.
Episodes of delirium are particularly common in advanced illness.
5. Shortness of Breath and Circulatory Changes
Breathing patterns may gradually change months before death.
Indicators include:
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Increased breathlessness
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Shallow breathing
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Reduced tolerance for activity
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Swelling in extremities
Circulation may weaken, leading to cold hands and feet or visible bruising due to fragile blood vessels and low platelet function.
As cardiac output declines, tissues receive less oxygen.