impairment or loss of motor or sensory function in areas of the body served by the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral neurological segments owing to damage of neural elements in those parts of the spinal column. It spares the upper limbs but, depending on the level, may involve the trunk, pelvic organs, or lower limbs.
One to Two Days Prior to Death. 1  Difficulty or inability to swallow. 2  Decrease in blood pressure. 3  Changes in breathing.  Congestion or respiratory 1  secretions. Restlessness.  Sleeping most of the 1  time. Mottlingâblotchiness to 2  skin. Surge of energy or alertness.  Fluctuating body 1  temperature. May or may not have  pain.
Death Occurs. The heart stops, the body convulses, the person starts taking short gasping breaths, and the ears become cold due to the lack of circulation. The blood turns acidic, the larynx loses its cough reflex and a build up of mucous may occur.