Death rattle

A death rattle is noisy breathing that often occurs in someone who is near death.^[1] It is caused by an accumulation of fluids such as saliva and bronchial secretions in the throat and upper airways.^[2] Those who are dying may lose their ability to swallow and may have increased production of bronchial secretions, resulting in such an accumulation.^[3] Usually, two or three days earlier, symptoms of approaching death can be observed, such as saliva accumulating in the throat, difficulty taking even a spoonful of water, shortness of breath, and rapid chest movement. While death rattle is a strong indication that someone is near death,^[2] it can also be produced by other problems that cause interference with the swallowing reflex, such as brain injuries.^[3]

It is sometimes misinterpreted as the sound of the person choking to death or gargling.