Why do people die while sleeping? Know its symptoms and ways to save lives.

We hear many such cases where people died while sleeping. Let us tell you how people die while sleeping and what are the symptoms behind it.

It is often said that death in sleep is the most peaceful way to go. But medical science tells us that it is often a sign of serious health problems. According to doctors, sudden death during sleep is mostly due to diseases related to heart, lungs or brain. Let us tell you how it happens and what things are responsible for it.

Why does a heart attack come suddenly?

Cardiologists say that the biggest reason for death during sleep is Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). In this, the heart suddenly stops beating. This problem is especially associated with coronary artery disease, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and heart valve disorder. Dr. Pramod Kumar (Cardiologist, Delhi) explains, "If heart disease is detected on time and the patient gets regular checkups done, then the risk of death due to heart failure during sleep can be reduced to a great extent."

 

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing stops intermittently while sleeping. This causes oxygen levels in the body to drop and increases pressure on the heart. It can cause heart attack, stroke and sudden death. Dr. Madhumala says, "CPAP therapy, weight control and abstinence from alcohol and smoking are helpful in improving sleep quality and reducing the risk of OSA."

Diabetes 

Patients with type 1 diabetes may die suddenly due to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) at night. This is called "Dead in Bed Syndrome". Endocrinologists recommend that patients should check their sugar level before going to bed and take insulin dose as per the doctor's guidelines.

EpiLISP and SUDEP

Patients with epilepsy are at risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), which often occurs during sleep.

According to neurologists, taking medicines on time, using a seizure monitoring device and regular consultation with a doctor significantly reduces the risk of SUDEP.

Strokes and other problems

High BP, blockage or brain aneurysm can cause stroke at night. Dr. Sanjay Verma (neurologist) explains, "Keeping high BP under control, taking care of cholesterol and getting regular health checkups is the safest way to avoid stroke."

Respiratory problems

COPD, severe asthma or lung infections can cause breathing problems during sleep. Such patients are advised to take regular medication, inhalers and avoid pollution.

What is responsible for what

• Smoking
• More alcohol
• obesity
• Irregular sleep

All these factors increase the risk of heart and lung diseases and increase the possibility of death during sleep manifold.

Death in sleep may be considered peaceful, but it often points to serious and hidden diseases. Conditions like heart disease, sleep apnea, diabetes, stroke and epilepsy are the major reasons behind this. Doctors advise that these dangers can be avoided to a great extent by timely examination, following medicines and adopting a healthy lifestyle.