If You Usually Sleep on Your Right Side, Here’s What You Should Know
Sleeping on your right side is not inherently dangerous. For most adults, there is no major health disadvantage to choosing the right side, and side sleeping can help keep the airway open and reduce snoring compared with sleeping on your back.
⚠️ One important exception: acid reflux
If you regularly experience heartburn or GERD, right-side sleeping can make reflux worse. The left side generally reduces nighttime acid reflux because of the position of the stomach and esophagus.
❤️ What about your heart?
You may see viral claims that sleeping on the right side is harmful to the heart. That’s an oversimplification. In fact, some people with certain heart conditions may find right-side sleeping more comfortable, particularly if it reduces shortness of breath.
🤰 Pregnancy is different
During pregnancy, side sleeping is generally recommended as pregnancy progresses. The left side is often preferred, but right-side sleeping is generally considered acceptable and may be more comfortable for some people.
