If you always sleep on your right side, should you be concerned?
Not necessarily. Sleeping on your right side is generally safe for most healthy adults. There isn’t a specific supplement, food, or sleeping ritual that everyone who sleeps on the right side “should have.”
However, your sleeping position can affect certain symptoms:
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Heartburn/reflux: Right-side sleeping can sometimes worsen acid reflux. Left-side sleeping may reduce nighttime reflux for some people.
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Snoring or sleep apnea: Side sleeping is often preferable to sleeping flat on your back because it can help keep the airway open.
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Shoulder or hip discomfort: Staying on one side all night can aggravate pressure-sensitive joints. Changing positions or using supportive pillows may help.
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Pregnancy: Side sleeping is generally encouraged later in pregnancy, with individualized advice from a healthcare professional.
A comfortable right-side position
Try keeping your head and neck aligned, placing a pillow between your knees, and using a mattress and pillow that provide adequate support.
Bottom line: You don’t need to change from right-side sleeping simply because of your age or because of a viral health claim. If you regularly wake with chest discomfort, significant heartburn, choking/gasping, or excessive daytime sleepiness, discuss those symptoms with a healthcare professional.
