Hello and thanks for posting,

I can appreciate your current concern for your mum.

Her breathing pattern may well be affected by her current chest infection. If she is lying flat, then secretions can collect on that side of the lungs. If you are worried at all, then discuss this with your mum. If she agrees, you can then ask her GP to do a home visit, to listen to her chest with a stethoscope. If she is under the care of a community palliative care team, then they can also come and assess her too. Either of these health professionals can advise you about your mum's condition as it is now. 

I hope that this reply helps,

Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Yours sincerely,

Vanda