Why should I not sleep on my right side?

The Right Side Sleep Conundrum: Why Your Heartburn Might Hate It

We all have our preferred sleeping positions. Curled up in a ball? Sprawled out like a starfish? On your back, stomach, or side? While comfort is king in the sleep realm, some positions might be secretly sabotaging your health, particularly if you suffer from heartburn. Specifically, sleeping on your right side is a potential culprit for worsening acid reflux symptoms.

Let’s delve into why. When you lie on your right side, gravity plays a less-than-helpful role. Your stomach, naturally positioned on the left side of your body, now sits higher than your esophagus. This shift allows stomach acid, which is constantly produced to digest food, to more easily flow upwards into the esophagus. This backflow, known as acid reflux, is the root cause of that burning sensation commonly associated with heartburn.

For those with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a chronic condition characterized by frequent acid reflux, sleeping on the right side can significantly exacerbate symptoms. The already compromised barrier between the stomach and esophagus is further stressed, leading to more frequent and intense heartburn episodes, potentially disrupting sleep and impacting overall well-being.

Pregnancy adds another layer of complexity. The growing uterus puts increased pressure on the stomach, making acid reflux a common complaint during pregnancy. Sleeping on the right side, with the added pressure, can make this discomfort even more pronounced. The weight of the baby can further contribute to the upward movement of stomach acid.

So, what’s the alternative? Sleeping on your left side is generally recommended. This position utilizes gravity to your advantage, keeping stomach acid lower than the esophagus and minimizing reflux. Elevating your head and upper body with pillows can also provide additional relief by creating a more inclined sleeping surface, preventing acid from easily flowing upwards.

It’s crucial to remember that everyone’s physiology is unique. While sleeping on the right side poses a higher risk of exacerbating heartburn, it doesn’t automatically guarantee discomfort for everyone. However, if you experience frequent heartburn, especially after sleeping on your right side, it’s worth considering a change in sleeping position. Consult your doctor or a gastroenterologist if your heartburn persists or worsens, as they can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options beyond adjusting sleeping posture. A good night’s sleep shouldn’t come at the cost of burning discomfort.