Doctors reveal warning for the worst sleep position and how you can get the best sleep
Lucy Devine
Featured Image Credit: YouTube/Mayo Clinic
Everyone has a favorite sleeping position.
While some people prefer to sleep on their front, others are side sleepers.
And while generally, people will sleep in whatever position is comfiest for them, there are some positions that should be avoided if possible.
For example, those who are pregnant shouldn't sleep on their back and obviously, sleeping belly-down is also a big no-no - and pretty much impossible, too.
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But there's another position that doctors say everyone should avoid if they can, and the reason why makes a lot of sense.
Mayo Clinic has explained that generally, side-sleeping is the best option.
"There's a host of evidence overall suggesting that probably sleeping on the side is better," says Dr. Virend Somers, a cardiologist and director of the sleep facility at Mayo Clinic's Center for Clinical and Translational Science.
According to the site, sleeping on your side can prevent the airways from collapsing and in turn, can reduce snoring.
"And so, all in all, sleeping on the side — perhaps with their head slightly elevated as long as that's comfortable — is a good way to sleep," Mayo Clinic sleep specialist, Dr. Lois Krahn, explains.
Dr. Krahn explained that while many people find sleeping on their back the most comfortable position, it's not ideal, especially for those with sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes you to stop breathing while you sleep.
Symptoms can include loud snoring, episodes in which you stop breathing during sleep;,gasping for air, waking with a dry mouth, excessive sleepiness in the day, and irritability.
Sleep apnea can be serious, so if you are concerned, it's important to seek medical advice.
"I know many people find it to be comfortable, because they're not putting weight on their joints," says Dr. Krahn
"Sleeping on the back means that your tongue and jaw can fall down and crowd your airway. And many people snore more on their back."
While sleeping on your stomach can help keep your airways open, it can also put a strain on your spine and neck.
However, if you struggle to sleep in any other position, you can use pillows to help provide support.
"If you can't sleep any other way, reduce back strain by placing a pillow under your hips and lower stomach. Use a pillow under your head if it doesn't place too much strain on your back," the site explains.