Does Sleeping on the Right Side Cause Acid Reflux?
One of the most widely reported effects of sleeping on your right side is its link to acid reflux. Studies show that when you lie on your right side, the stomach’s position encourages gastric acids to travel upward into the esophagus. The result? A burning sensation, discomfort, or even disrupted sleep.
This is particularly problematic for people with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), gastritis, or chronic heartburn. By contrast, sleeping on the left side allows the stomach to sit lower than the esophagus, reducing the likelihood of acid backflow.
👉 Tips to avoid acidity while sleeping:
Elevate the head of your bed slightly.
Avoid eating heavy meals late at night.
Try to rest on your left side if you’re prone to nighttime reflux.
Impact on the Heart and Circulation
Beyond digestion, your cardiovascular system can also be affected. Sleeping on your right side may exert more pressure on the heart, which could be uncomfortable for individuals with existing cardiac conditions. While healthy people may not notice much difference, those with heart failure or hypertension often report worsened symptoms when resting this way.
Additionally, this position can disrupt blood and lymphatic circulation. Efficient circulation is crucial during sleep because it supports detoxification and the transport of nutrients. Poor lymphatic drainage at night may increase fluid retention, heaviness in the limbs, or even morning swelling.
Keywords: effects of sleeping on the right side, circulation problems while sleeping.
