When it comes to how we sleep, most of us have a favourite position that feels the most comfortable. But did you know that the way you position yourself at night could have an impact on your heart health? If you’re someone who prefers sleeping on your stomach, you might be wondering if this choice could be affecting your heart. While it’s not as simple as saying one position is better than another for everyone, there are certain factors to consider, especially if you have underlying health conditions. We spoke to Dr Jyoti Kusnur, Consultant Interventional Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Goa, who explained the potential risks and benefits of stomach sleeping.
Potential Cardiovascular Risks Associated with Sleeping on the Stomach
No Direct Cardiovascular Risk
“For individuals with a normally functioning heart, sleeping on the stomach does not directly increase the risk of heart attacks or other cardiovascular issues. The cardiovascular system is adaptable and generally not affected by sleeping position,” said Dr Kusnur.
Gastrointestinal Concerns
Sleeping on the stomach can worsen gastrointestinal acid reflux, which may mimic or overlap with cardiac symptoms. This can disturb sleep, which is detrimental to overall health, especially in cardiac patients.
Also Read: How Your Sleeping Position Leads To Back And Neck Pain
How Does Sleeping Position Affect Heart Health and Overall Cardiovascular Risk?
- Cardiovascular Adaptation: In healthy individuals, the heart can adapt to various sleeping positions without any significant negative impact.
- Impact on Heart Failure Patients: Patients with heart failure may experience discomfort when lying on the left side, as it can reduce cardiac output. Such patients often prefer sleeping on their right side, which is more comfortable.
Does Sleeping on Your Stomach Worsen Heart Conditions or Increase Risk?
- Overlap of Symptoms: While sleeping on the stomach does not inherently increase heart risk, the potential for exacerbated acid reflux can disturb sleep and mimic heart-related symptoms, which can be harmful to those with existing heart conditions.
- Disturbed Sleep: For cardiac patients, disturbed sleep due to acid reflux or discomfort can have a negative impact on overall heart health.
Stomach Sleeping Vs Other Positions: Impact on Heart Health
- Stomach Vs Back: Sleeping on the back can worsen sleep apnea in individuals who suffer from this condition, potentially leading to hypertension and arrhythmias, which are more directly linked to heart risk than stomach sleeping.
- Stomach Vs Side: Sleeping on the left side can be uncomfortable for heart failure patients. On the other hand, sleeping on the right side is generally more comfortable and may even indicate worsening heart function in severe cases.
Who Is at Greater Risk from Stomach Sleeping?
- Sleep Apnoea: While not directly related to stomach sleeping, individuals with sleep apnoea should avoid sleeping on their back, as it can worsen symptoms. Stomach sleeping might not be ideal either due to potential acid reflux.
- Heart Failure: Patients with heart failure might find stomach sleeping uncomfortable, as it may exacerbate reflux and disturb sleep.
Can Changes in Sleeping Posture Lead to Improved Cardiovascular Health?
- Improved Sleep Quality: Adjusting sleeping posture to reduce reflux or improve breathing in sleep apnea patients can lead to better sleep quality, which is beneficial for heart health.
- Symptom Management: For those with heart failure or reflux, finding a more comfortable sleeping position can help manage symptoms and reduce nighttime discomfort, indirectly benefiting cardiovascular health.
According to the Sleep Foundation, it was found that stomach sleeping is the least supportive position for your back. Sleeping on your back or side provides considerably more health benefits and reduces discomfort as compared to sleeping on your stomach.
Expert Tips on Sleep Positions for Heart Health
- Focus on Comfort: For most people without heart disease, any comfortable sleeping position is fine as long as sleep is restorative and undisturbed.
- Consult Healthcare Providers: Individuals with heart conditions or concerns about sleep-related symptoms should consult healthcare providers to determine the best sleeping position for their specific needs.
Bottomline
Dr Kusnur concluded, “Sleeping positions can influence various aspects of health, especially for individuals with heart conditions. While sleeping on the stomach doesn't inherently increase heart attack risk, it may exacerbate other issues like acid reflux, which can disturb sleep and indirectly impact heart health.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]