The last breath before death is commonly called the “death rattle.” The death rattle is a gurgling or rattling sound that occurs when a person can no longer cough or clear their airway effectively. This sound is caused by secretions or fluids in the lungs or throat and is expected in the last hours or days of life. While the death rattle can be distressing for loved ones, it is usually not painful or uncomfortable for the dying person. Hospice and palliative care teams are trained to manage symptoms like the death rattle to help keep patients comfortable and peaceful in their final moments.