Although uncommon, one may die while asleep due to health problems such as sleep apnea, cardiac arrest, or stroke.
This article will discuss why and how people could pass away in their Sleep. We’ll also provide some data regarding the likelihood of passing away in Sleep and provide answers to some commonly asked questions. If you’re interested in knowing your risk factors or the risk factors of any elderly persons you know, This guide will provide answers to your questions.
Table of contents
How do people die in Sleep?
Different health conditions and external causes often cause the death of a sleeper. The most prevalent cause of sleeping in the night is sudden heart death. Sudden cardiac death is the reason for between 15 and 20 percent of deaths worldwide. According to the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation, about 30% of deaths occur at night. Find out more details on this issue and other medical issues.
Cardiovascular Issues
Heart disease is the most common reason why you die in your Sleep. The sudden death of a cardiac patient, caused by an arrest of the cardiac system, is the leading cause. According to an investigation by the Center for Cardiac Arrest Prevention, females are significantly more likely to suffer sudden cardiac death in Sleep. A cardiac arrhythmia, also known as an irregular heart rate, may cause sleep-related death. Sudden death from arrhythmia (SADS) is when an untreated arrhythmia causes an abrupt cardiac arrest.
Heart disease is the most frequent cause of death (whether sleeping or not); therefore, ensure you have an annual physical exam to determine your likelihood of suffering from cardiac attacks or coronary arterial diseases. It is recommended that the American Heart Association recommends getting your blood pressure tested every two years, once at the age of 20, because high blood pressure could significantly increase your risk of developing heart conditions and stroke. Regular preventative treatment can prevent heart problems shortly, particularly in cases where heart problems are prevalent throughout the family. Finding and treating a heart issue could aid in stopping falling asleep!
Stroke
A stroke can cause death during Sleep. In reality, about 25% of strokes happen in Sleep. Sleep apnea sufferers tend to experience strokes at night more than others because sleep apnea could influence the brain’s oxygen levels in Sleep. Check out the following section for more details on sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea
According to the Cleveland Clinic explains that sleep apnea can cause irregular heart rhythms, and it can also cause a narrowing of the airway that connects your upper and lower chest, putting stress on your heart. Sleep apnea sufferers are more prone to stroke and sudden cardiac death at night. If you have this sleep disorder, you’re at a higher risk of developing heart attack and stroke and stroke, which is why we suggest seeking a doctor to identify the symptoms you experience and their root reasons.
You can check for our What is Sleep Apnea guide if you want more information about sleep apnea. Our reviewer, who is leading the way, Marten, actually suffers from sleep apnea and has a wealth of knowledge to give anyone who would like to understand more.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning happens when carbon monoxide accumulates in the bloodstream of your body, leading to tissue damage and even death. If you’re exposed to monoxide at night, there won’t be any signs. You may experience headaches, weakness, nausea, dizziness, and breath shortness when awake. Carbon monoxide has no odor flavorless, tasteless and colorless, and therefore you’ll be unable to recognize it by yourself. Check that your carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order to ensure your safety.
Overdose
A drug overdose could cause sudden deaths and is extremely difficult for family members to deal with. Most sleep-related overdoses result from sleep pill overdoses. Sleeping pills can be dangerous when combined with alcohol and could result in the accidental consumption of a drug. Do not mix alcohol with pills due to the risk of dying if you do this.
Nighttime drinking can cause the poisoning of alcohol and possibly death, particularly when you vomit. At the same time, you sleep and can’t get up in the morning to remove the obstruction within your airways. Be sure to drink responsibly and consult a medical doctor if you’re worried that you’re struggling to control your drinking.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
SIDS refers to the sudden death of a child less than one-year-old. Respiratory and brain disorders might be a contributing reason for the. Although SIDS can be avoided, placing your newborn baby on their back will reduce the chances of developing SIDS.
What are the chances of you dying in your Sleep?
As we have explained previously, heart disease is the most popular reason for passing away at night. Around one in eight people suffering from heart disease die while asleep. In the same way, a 25% percent of all strokes happen at night.
The odds of dying during Sleep are very low if any additional risk factors do not afflict you. If you suffer from sleep apnea (sleep apnea), be more at risk of passing away in your sleeping. As per Dr. Chad Denman, people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea are at an increased risk of 30% dying from cardiac causes. A study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that those with Obstructive sleep apnea have a higher risk of dying.
Tips to Stay Well
Healthy living can reduce the risk of the death of a sleeper, particularly when you’re diligent in monitoring your cardiovascular health. Here are some suggestions for maintaining your health well into ripe old age.
- Have regular physicals. Your doctor can help you identify all risk factors and factors that could require attention.
- Make sure you are eating a balanced and healthy diet. This will improve your cardiovascular (and general) well-being and could aid in sleeping better. Learn about how nutrition affects Sleep with our guide to sleeping health.
- Sleep enough. A good night’s Sleep can improve your overall health and help you focus on your day.
- Control stress and prioritize your mental health. Stress increases your chances of contracting various health issues, including heart and blood pressure. Sleep and mental health are connected. Therefore, you can talk to your physician if you’re having difficulty sleeping or staying awake at night, worrying about dying during rest.
- Exercise! The connection between exercise and Sleep is well-established, as is the connection between exercise and heart health. You’ll surely benefit from a regular workout regimen, regardless of whether you wish to sleep better at night or stay away from heart problems.
The Final Words
While no one wants to contemplate dying, being aware of specific health issues is relaxing. We hope this article has answered your questions and alleviated some of your anxieties.
FAQs about the topic of death and Sleep.
If you have concerns, keep reading.
Can you die in your Sleep from anaphylaxis?
Anaphylactic shock refers to an allergic reaction that blocks your airways. It is certainly possible to die while asleep due to anaphylaxis. If you suffer from an extremely severe allergic reaction during your Sleep, it can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Do you have the potential to die from panic attacks at night?
It isn’t possible to suffer a fatal panic attack while asleep. These attacks are not life-threatening; however, the symptoms of panic attacks might be similar to those of heart attacks.
Nocturnal seizures can increase the risk of suffering from epilepsy. If you are sleeping face down, you could be suffocated during seizures. A seizure can induce you to fall out of your bed. Certain types of epilepsy can cause seizures, most often experienced during the night. If you’re experiencing seizures, consult your physician immediately.
Can you die from acid reflux in your Sleep?
There is no evidence of people dying from acid reflux during Sleep. You are unlikely to choke to death while sleeping if you suffer from acid reflux. If you suffer from sleep apnea, your reflux symptoms can be more intense at night. It is possible to consider treatment options for sleep apnea, acid reflux or both.
Can you die in your Sleep from low blood pressure?
It is not likely that you will pass away in the night due to the low pressure in your blood. The cause of death could be prolonged lower blood pressure; however, typically, the condition resolves itself. The doctor is in a position to inform you of the reason for your low blood pressure. It could be caused by an underlying issue that requires treatment.
Can you die of low blood sugar in your Sleep?
A low blood sugar level could cause seizures or (in rare instances) death if you have diabetes. Stanford Medicine describes a study on monitoring blood sugar during Sleep.
Are you able to die of thirst in your Sleep? No. If you’re dehydrated enough that you’re in danger of dying, you’ll likely be awakened by cramping and pain. It will take around three days before you reach the level of dehydration. If you’re worried about drinking, drink plenty of water throughout the day. Also, keep an ice cube near your bed each night.