hampster is sick

Question
My sons hamster is lathargic, breathing hard and its eyes do not look right. If touched its body goes into spasms.  It is completely unresponsive. It occasionally squeals as if in pain. It is 2 years old or so.  Is it just dying or are these symptoms of something curable?  

Answer
Hi Jenn!  I wish I had better news for you.  Unfortunately, hamsters have a very short life span, ranging from 1-3 years.  Being that your son's hamster is 2 years old, this would consider him being elderly.  The symptoms you have describes, to be honest, don't sound good, and in my experience, I do believe that he will pass away by morning.  I hate to be brutally honest, but I think in this situation, it would be best so you can prepare your son for his loss.  I so much wish that I could tell you something differently, but unfortunately, I can't.
I am so very sorry.  I hope your son deals with this okay.  I know how hard losing a beloved "furbaby" is.  Please take care and know that I'm thinking of you and your son.
Best of luck and kind wishes,
Hilary