However, some studies and sleep specialists note that the left side can keep the airways slightly more stable in some people, particularly those suffering from sleep apnea or reflux-related snoring.
2. Connection to acid reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux is a major cause of snoring. When stomach acid flows back up into the stomach, it can irritate the throat and airways, causing inflammation and narrowing that worsen snoring.
Sleeping on your right side can worsen acid reflux due to the position of the stomach and esophagus. This increased reflux can lead to greater throat irritation during the night, which can exacerbate snoring, especially in people who already suffer from GERD.
On the other hand, sleeping on the left side has been shown to reduce reflux, which is why doctors often recommend it to people who snore due to acid reflux.
3. Nasal Congestion and Circulation
Some people find that their nasal congestion varies depending on their sleeping position. Sleeping on your right side can worsen congestion in the right nostril due to gravity and changes in blood flow. If your snoring is caused by nasal obstruction rather than a collapsed throat, this can exacerbate it.
Sleeping on your right side can help reduce snoring
Sleeping on your right side can be beneficial if:
Your snoring occurs mainly when you sleep on your back.
You don't suffer from acid reflux.
Your snoring is mild and depends on your sleeping position.
You have shoulder or hip pain that prevents you from sleeping on your left side.
In these cases, sleeping on your right side is often a reasonable compromise and can significantly reduce snoring compared to sleeping on your back.
When this can worsen snoring
