One of the good things our sleep study tells you is which position you should sleep in to avoid sleep apnea symptoms. When you sleep your body will go to the position it is most comfortable in. Studies do show sleeping on your back is a no for sleep apnea sufferers….why? Twice as many apneas (breathing cessations) happen while
sleeping on your back. This may be due to the effects of gravity, which cause the throat to narrow when a person lies on the back. Patients who sleep on their backs and have 50 - 80 apneas per hour can sometimes nearly eliminate them when they shift to one side or the other.
- So when sleeping, try to sleep on your side. If you unconsciously find yourself on your back again, here are some tips:
- A special pillow that helps to stretch the neck may reduce snoring and improve sleep
- Sew a small pocket to the back of the pajamas and place a tennis ball or other small ball into it.
- Place a pillow under your shoulder
- Sleeping in an upright or elevate the head of the bed may help.
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