Sleeping on the left side is a popular sleeping position for many people. It’s comfortable, and some people even believe that it’s good for their health. However, there are some side effects of sleeping on the left side that people should be aware of, especially when it comes to how it can affect the heart......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
1. Acid Reflux
One of the most common side effects of sleeping on the left side is acid reflux. When you lie on your left side, your stomach and esophagus are positioned in a way that makes it easier for stomach acid to flow back up into your esophagus. This can cause heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing, which can all be uncomfortable and interfere with sleep.
2. Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where you stop breathing for short periods during sleep. Sleeping on your left side can worsen sleep apnea because it can put pressure on your airway, making it more difficult to breathe.
3. Numbness and Tingling
Sleeping on your left side for long periods can cause numbness and tingling in your arms and hands. This is because the weight of your upper body can compress nerves in your arm and hand, reducing blood flow and causing these sensations.
4. Muscle Pain
Sleeping on the left side can also cause muscle pain in the neck, shoulders, and back. This is because the position can put pressure on these areas and cause strain on the muscles.
5. Heart Strain
Sleeping on the left side can put a strain on the heart. This is because when you lie on your left side, gravity can cause the heart to work harder to pump blood to the rest of the body. Over time, this can lead to increased strain on the heart and potentially cause heart problems.
6. Reduced Blood Flow
Sleeping on the left side can also reduce blood flow to the heart. This is because the position can compress the vena cava, a large vein that carries blood to the heart. When the vena cava is compressed, blood flow can be reduced, leading to less oxygen being delivered to the heart and potentially causing heart problems.