How long survive without fluids

hiya

my DH has been put on hospice. He is in hospital. He has had zero fluids for 3 days. He’s on morphine and Valium. His BP is still good, good oxygen, had some mottling which is now back to normal, strong pulse. He had death rattle which is now gone. Has anyone had this experience?

Jeff H

I'm sorry to hear about your DH. My dad was in a similar state years ago. We kept his lips moist with a sponge. Everyone is different but my dad lasted about 7 days. He wasn't in any pain.

Quilting brings calm

Mom could drink out of a straw on Monday, by Tuesday she couldn’t. That was the last of her liquids. She died on Friday.

Her breathing changed Friday morning. She was starting to rattle when I got there about noon. She died about 1:30 or so.

Edit: This was over a year ago. Just using the weekdays to show time progression.

Goodlife2025

@hiya hoping your DH passes peacefully and you are surrounded by loving supports.

Jgirl57

(((Hugs))) for this difficult time

Metta

The death rattle came and went for my DH one week before he could no longer swallow fluids. He passed three days later. Praying for peace for you.

Eloise0304

My DH lasted just 17 days in the hospital after being admitted for agitation and aggressive behavior due to vascular dementia, in the ER. He never did eat or drink again, but was otherwise physically strong.

SDianeL

My Mom had a stroke and was transferred to hospice. No food or drink and she passed one week later. Praying for a peaceful passing. Hugs. 🙏

PlentyQuiet

DH had no food or water for 6 days before passing. It is hard, but with the help of hospice there was no, obvious, discomfort.