The best sleeping position for sleep apnea is on your side, specifically on your left side.
Here's why:
- Gravity helps: Sleeping on your side allows gravity to help keep your airway open. This is especially beneficial for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea.
- Reduced pressure: Sleeping on your side helps reduce pressure on your tongue and throat, which can become blocked when you sleep on your back.
- Improved digestion: Sleeping on your left side can also aid in digestion, as it helps keep food moving through your digestive tract.
While sleeping on your side is generally recommended, you should avoid sleeping on your back, as this can worsen sleep apnea symptoms.
Tips for Staying on Your Side:
- Use a body pillow: Place a body pillow between your knees and along your side to keep you from rolling onto your back.
- Sew a tennis ball: Sew a tennis ball into the back of your pajamas to create a physical barrier that makes it uncomfortable to sleep on your back.
- Use a wedge pillow: A wedge pillow elevates your upper body, making it more difficult to roll onto your back.
Consult a doctor: If you have sleep apnea, it's important to consult with your doctor about the best sleeping position for you. They can help you determine the best strategies to manage your condition and improve your sleep quality.
