Is it possible to have an energy surge in the final days of cancer?
1 answer
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Last updated: May 02, 2010
Q
My mum is in the last few weeks of life due to bowel cancer spread to her lungs and bladder. The last two days she is almost hyperactive and seems to be having a energy surge. Is this possible?
A
Andrew Putnam, M.D. is the director of the Palliative Care Program at Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and Georgetown University.
Yes, many people have a temporary improvement near the end of life. This can take the form of an energy surge, or improved clarity of thought, but it often helps the person accomplish things near the end of his or her life. It may simply mean that the person's mind is more clear allowing greater ability to have end of life conversations. When someone is feeling better or more energetic, it can help to ask if there are any goals that the person has and can you help them attain them.
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