Best Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea

Best-Sleeping-Position-for-Sleep-Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a common disorder. According to studies, around 12% of the population suffers from this condition. And as we all know, not having quality sleep can essentially affect our life. So if you have this, you need to know the best sleeping position for sleep apnea. That way, you can manage the symptoms and be able to have the best possible rest.

When you have mild sleep apnea, you might have around 15 episodes per hour. And that means, your sleep is interrupted 15 times every 60 minutes. For those who have severe sleep apnea, it could even reach 500 within the 8-hour sleep cycle. Least to say, it’s never going to be an easy night. 

Treating Sleep Apnea

The good news though is that you can manage and treat this sleeping disorder. Commonly, the first recommendation is to lose weight, as experts can see a direct link between sleep apnea and obesity. Others are required to undergo CPAP therapy, where you need to wear a mask while sleeping. And in extreme cases, surgery is necessary.

If you think you might be suffering from sleep apnea, consult your doctor right away. The sooner you have it checked, the more chances that it could be treated.

Recommended Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea

A change in lifestyle and sleeping position could also improve your situation. Here are the best ones that could potentially help you.

When you have sleep apnea, sleeping on your back should be the least position to get used to. There is a tendency that your tongue falls back, and it could block the airway. That leaves us with two more options – sleeping on your side and your stomach.

Sleep on Your Side

When you choose this, make sure to have a quality pillow that will support both your neck and head. Ensure that your back is mostly straight. According to research, it’s better to sleep on your left rather than your right side. This is recommended not only because it can improve your sleep quality. It is also beneficial for blood flow, and is ideal if you suffer from GERD.

But don’t worry if you are used to sleeping on your right. That’s the second-best sleeping position if you have sleep apnea. However, try to switch sides if you can.

We know that the fetal position is the common position when you sleep on your right side. While such cannot aggravate sleep apnea, it could be bad for your neck and back. Thus, you might want to avoid this as well.

Some search for huge body pillows to keep them in the right position, and we recommend that you do the same. If you need help choosing the right pillows for side sleepers, we have here a few suggestions.

Zoey Side Sleeper Pillow 

Best Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea - Tip Top Sleep

Check the latest price on Amazon.  

This pillow is specifically designed to help you get a good sleep. Because of its curve design, you can ensure proper body alignment. This is free from any toxins, which makes it ideal for the entire family. If you want to try this out yet unsure if this is the right product for you, feel free to test it for 30 days.

So far, those who are using the Zoey Side Sleeper Pillow do not have regrets. In fact, they claim to have the best sleep ever with this product.

Ubauba Luxury Shredded Memory Foam Body Pillow

Best Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea - Tip Top Sleep

Check the latest price on Amazon.  

The Ubauba pillow is highly recommended for patients suffering from cervical diseases, high blood pressure, and sleeping disorders. They also provide shredded memory foam filling, just in case you need to adjust it. The cover is made with bamboo rayon and polyester, making your entire sleep cool and comfortable. They also offer a 10-year warranty for all their users.

Sleep on Your Stomach

Best Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea

Now, sleeping on your stomach is not a common position. But experts say this could help patients with sleep apnea. Just make sure that you have a thin pillow specifically made for stomach-sleepers. This could prevent strain on the neck as you lie down. The danger when you sleep on your stomach is that you might bury your face in the pillow, which can also make it difficult to breathe. So you better watch out for that.

Speaking of pillows, especially for this position, we recommend this one for you.

Bluewave Bedding Super Slim Gel Memory Foam 

Best Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea

Check the latest price on Amazon.  

This pillow is just 3.25 inches high, perfect if you are a stomach sleeper. And with its advanced cooling feature, you will never wake up with a sweaty face or body. The cover is also washable and easy to clean, so that’s a bonus. If you wish for slimmer pillows, they still have other options to choose from. Some of its users are ordering multiple items after receiving the first one. That means, it’s that amazing.

However, if you have been sleeping on your back for the longest time, we understand that it’s hard to change right away. What we recommend is that you use a recliner bed so that your head is elevated. If you do not have the budget to change your entire mattress, you can try a wedge pillow instead.

RELAX SUPPORT Wedge Pillow 

Best Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea - Tip Top Sleep

Check the latest price on Amazon.  

This is the only wedge pillow with strategic elevation technology. It’s made of premium materials ensuring that what you will get is of quality. They promise that the pillow will not go flat over time. And if that happens, they will offer you a refund. That’s how they are confident with the product.

This pillow is not just for people with sleep apnea. If you need to improve your posture, or if you suffer from acid reflux, this could be one of the best choices.

If you wish to learn more, here’s a quick video about the best sleeping position for people with sleep apnea.

Conclusion

Sleep Apnea is not a joke. Having poor quality of sleep can affect not just your productivity but your mood as well. And while we have already provided the best sleeping position for apnea, it is still best to regularly seek help from experts. You might need additional intervention to combat the disorder.

By Michelle D.

Meet Michelle, founder of Tip Top Sleep, a website dedicated to helping you achieve the best sleep possible. With over 50 years of combined experience in the realm of sleep, Michelle and her team provide easy-to-follow tips and strategies to help you feel better, function better, and live better through optimal sleep. Let us help you prioritize your sleep and discover the power of a good night's rest.