Damilola Timilehin, Ibadan
You’ve probably heard stories about individuals dying while sleeping, but have you ever wondered why? Given that we spend about a quarter of our lives sleeping, it’s no surprise that many individuals pass away while sleeping.
There is a significant difference between dying overnight (especially when no other health problems exist) and dying while unconscious in the final stages of a fatal disease. We need to understand the differences between the two and how to deal with them.
There are various reasons why people die while sleeping, according to studies. These are some of them:
Cardiac Arrest
One of the reasons why people die while sleeping is because of this. Heart function may be strained while sleeping. There appears to be a diurnal pattern of heart malfunction, with difficulties occurring more frequently late at night and near waking time. If you think you’re having a heart attack, go to the doctor right away.
Arrhythmias
Another health problem that might cause death while sleeping is this. When arrhythmias strike, the heart’s contractions may become irregular, too rapid, or too slow, compromising the heart’s pumping efficiency.
Arrhythmias are a common cause of mortality while sleeping. Always seek medical attention to rule out any potential causes of arrhythmias.
Congestive heart failure
This syndrome can also lead to heart failure over time. Left-sided heart failure affects the right side of the heart fast, causing fluid aggregation in the lungs (leading to shortness of breath, especially while lying down) and peripheral edema (swelling in the feet and legs).
If the heart is overworked, its ability to circulate blood may be compromised. Congestive heart failure should be addressed in all cases before it becomes more serious.
Stroke
Stroke can also cause death during sleep. If the brainstem is affected by a stroke, respiration, eye-opening, muscular control, and consciousness may be affected. These strokes can be devastating and can happen while you’re sleeping. To avoid complications, treat all occurrences of stroke as soon as possible.
Respiratory Arrest
The lung is a critical organ in the body that, if damaged, can result in death. Pulmonary disease is frequently chronic, and the consequences can take time to manifest. However, if a critical threshold is crossed, death may result. To avoid all of these problems, keep your lungs healthy and get medical help if you have a problem.
