Acid Reflux & Sleep: Risks and When to Worry

While gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and acid reflux can cause significant discomfort and complications, they are generally not considered life-threatening and do not pose an immediate risk of death during sleep.

However, in rare cases, GERD can increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Pneumonia can become severe, particularly in elderly people or those with compromised immune systems. In rare instances, severe aspiration pneumonia leading to respiratory failure could result in death.