5 ways to make sure you don’t die in your sleep

This comes a few months after the famous American comedian Bob Saget, 65, died of a head wound in his sleep.

While passing away during sleep may seem peaceful and appropriate to many people, when it happens to people in their 60s (relatively young these days), it can seem terrifying.

Although the cause of death of actor Liotta is unknown, experts say 90% of sudden, unexpected deaths at night are due to cardiac arrest. Here’s how to avoid that, if possible.

1. Be wary of drugs

People suffering from heart disease and lungs and taking medications that affect the brain (including tranquilizers, antidepressants or pain relievers) have the highest risk of death during sleep, said Dr. Sumeet Chugh, medical director of the Heartbeat Center Cedars-Sinai, told the Wall Street Journal recently, according to Eat This, Not That!

Mr. Chugh advises people in that group to talk to their doctors about reducing their risk.

“Talk to your doctor again and say, ‘Listen, do I need this extra sedative? Maybe I can try to get control with one instead of two,'” Mr Chugh noted. .

Even if that doesn’t apply to you, being aware of the potential for interactions between drugs, not to mention alcohol and other substances, becomes increasingly important as you age.

2. Recognize the symptoms of sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes people to stop breathing during sleep because soft tissues collapse into the airways.

The body wakes up slightly so that breathing can resume, repeating this process several times during the night.

Sleep apnea can increase your risk of heart disease and sudden cardiac arrest.

The condition is treatable, but experts say 80 to 90 percent of people with sleep apnea go undiagnosed. Main symptom: Snoring. If you have a chronic condition, consult your doctor.

3. Don’t ignore chest pain

If you feel even mild discomfort, pressure, tightness or pressure in the chest area; pain in the neck, jaw, back, or shoulder; shortness of breath; or lightheadedness, which could be a sign of a heart attack Shutterstock

Chest pain isn’t the same as a headache or a hangover, and trying to “sleep less” can be a fatal mistake.

Experts say that if you feel even mild discomfort, pressure, tightness or pressure in the chest area; pain in the neck, jaw, back, or shoulder; shortness of breath; or lightheadedness, which could be a sign of a heart attack. Call 911 immediately.

4. Watch out for heart health

Examination health Periodically will keep you updated with information about your heart health. Many heart problems or signs of heart disease can be identified with a routine electrocardiogram.

Year-round, you should practice heart-healthy habits – eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, avoid tobacco, and drink alcohol only in moderation.

5. Inadequate quality sleep

Regular inadequate quality sleep is linked to many health problems, from obesity and diabetes to dementia and heart disease. shutterstock

Regular inadequate quality sleep has been linked to many health problems, from obesity and diabetes to dementia and heart disease.

In May 2022, scientists said they had determined the ideal amount of sleep for middle-aged and elderly people: seven hours a night. Sleeping less than six hours is linked to cardiovascular disease, according to Eat This, Not That!