5 Reasons Why People Die When Sleeping

While dying in your sleep might seem like a peaceful way to go, it’s important to understand the main causes of sudden death during sleep and how to prevent them, especially if you have many years ahead.

Whether your interest in this topic comes from curiosity or concern about your own risk, you can take preventive measures during the day. Once bedtime arrives, focus on getting a good night’s rest without worrying.

In this article, we will discuss 5 reasons why people die when sleeping, preventive measures, and provide medical advice to help reduce these risks. By gaining awareness and taking appropriate actions, we can improve overall sleep health and safety.

1. Sudden cardiac arrest

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. If you don’t get medical help immediately, it can lead to death within minutes according to some research.

The risk is even greater when it occurs during sleep because it often takes too long for emergency help to arrive.

Preventive measures:

Regular Check-ups: Schedule routine check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor heart health and identify any potential issues early.
Manage Blood Pressure: Keep blood pressure in check through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication if prescribed.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet and exercise regularly to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases; quitting smoking can greatly improve heart health.
Know Your Family History: Be aware of any hereditary heart conditions and discuss them with your doctor for proactive management.

Medical advice: If you are experiencing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations, you need to seek medical attention immediately.

People with known heart conditions should follow their doctor’s recommendations and consider using a heart monitor if advised.

2. Sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious condition that not only poses risks but also heightens the chance of dying from a heart-related event.

If you have obstructive sleep apnea, you might stop breathing 5 to 30 times or more every hour while you sleep.

This makes you over 2.5 times more likely to experience sudden cardiac death between midnight and 6 a.m. compared to those without the condition.

If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to heart failure, stroke, coronary heart disease, and irregular heartbeats.

According to research by G. Jean-Louis on Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Cardiovascular Disease, more than 38,000 people in the United States die each year from heart disease linked to sleep apnea.

Preventive measures:

Get diagnosed: If you snore loudly or experience excessive daytime sleepiness, consult a sleep specialist for a diagnosis.
Use a CPAP machine: For those diagnosed with sleep apnea, using a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine can help keep the airway open during sleep.
Maintain a healthy weight: Too much weight can exacerbate sleep apnea; managing weight through diet and exercise can help reduce symptoms.
Avoid alcohol and sedatives: These substances can relax throat muscles and worsen sleep apnea.
Sleep on your side: Sleeping on your back can worsen sleep apnea; try sleeping on your side if advised by your doctor.

Medical advice: Visit your doctor if you suspect you have sleep apnea. Treatment includes lifestyle changes and the use of a CPAP machine to ensure proper breathing during sleep.

3. Stroke

The heart’s job is to pump blood throughout the body, and if it doesn’t work properly, it can affect other body systems.

For example, an irregular heartbeat can sometimes cause a blood clot that travels to the brain and leads to a stroke. High blood pressure can make this risk even greater.

If stroke affects the brainstem, it can disrupt breathing, eye movement, muscle control, and consciousness. These types of strokes can be serious and might even happen while you’re asleep.

Preventive measures:

Control blood pressure: Keep your blood pressure under control through lifestyle changes and medication if prescribed.
Manage diabetes: If you have diabetes, monitor blood sugar levels and adhere to your treatment plan.
Eat a healthy diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing saturated fats and salt.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of stroke and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Avoid Excessive alcohol: Limit alcohol intake as excessive drinking can increase stroke risk.

Medical advice: If you experience regular numbness, confusion, or trouble speaking, seek immediate medical attention as these can be signs of a stroke. Regular check-ups can help manage risk factors and prevent strokes.

4. Drug overdose

An accidental drug overdose can happen with both prescription medications and illegal drugs, especially if you mix them with alcohol or other substances.

If this occurs while you’re sleeping, it can slow down your breathing and be life-threatening if not immediately addressed.

Preventive measures:

Follow prescription guidelines: Take medications exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and avoid self-medicating.
Avoid mixing substances: Do not mix medications with alcohol or other drugs without consulting your doctor.
Store medications safely: Keep medications out of reach of others, most especially children.
Monitor dosages: Use a pill organizer to ensure you’re taking the correct dose and avoid accidental overdose.
Seek help for substance abuse: If you struggle with substance abuse, seek professional help and support for recovery.

Medical advice: If you have concerns about your medication or experience unusual symptoms after taking drugs, visit your doctor immediately. If an overdose is detected, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.

5. Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), often called crib death, is when a baby dies suddenly and unexpectedly, usually while sleeping. We don’t know exactly why it happens, but it’s linked to factors like how the baby sleeps and what’s in their crib according to research.

Preventive measures:

Sleep position: Place infants on their backs to sleep, as this reduces the risk of SIDS.
Safe sleep environment: Ensure the baby’s sleep area is free of loose bedding, pillows, and toys.
Use a firm mattress: Place babies on a firm mattress in a crib that meets safety standards.
Avoid smoking: Do not smoke around the baby and ensure a smoke-free environment.
Breastfeed if possible: Breastfeeding has been associated with a lower risk of SIDS.

Medical advice: Follow the guidelines for safe sleep practices and ensure the baby’s sleep environment is as safe as possible. Regular check-ups with a pediatrician can help monitor your baby’s health and development.

A Word From GetMe Treated

Understanding the reasons why people die when sleeping is important for taking preventive measures and ensuring a safer sleep environment.

By recognizing risks such as sudden cardiac arrest, sleep apnea, stroke, drug overdose, and SIDS, and implementing the suggested preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce these risks.

Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment to address specific health concerns and maintain good health. Taking proactive steps today can lead to healthier and safer sleep tomorrow.