Expert: Margot RN BScN CGN - 4/4/2006

Question
my mother suffered two massive strokes fourteen days ago. I am in
another state caring for my father and cannot leave. the strokes
affected both sides of her brain and  left her paralyzed, blind and
deaf. she was taken off of all medicines and has only had
morphine. the doctors said she does not have long to live, but she
is still with us. i keep hearing reference to a "mask of death". I
cannot find any reference to it on your site. can you explain the
what that refers to?

Answer
Hi Mary Beth and thanks for writing,

I have never heard that phrase, it must be a local terminology. When people are close to death they often have a certain look which includes pale, grey, dry skin, sunken eyes, dry mucous membranes, and a certain aroma - I assume this is what they're referring to.

I hoe this helps - my thoughts are with you.

Margot