Best Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea - Honeydew Sleep

Best Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea: What Science Says

If you or someone you love has sleep apnea, you know how challenging it can be to get a restful night’s sleep. The good news? The way you sleep can make a big difference. 


Discover the best sleeping position for sleep apnea, backed by the latest research. Learn simple changes that can help you breathe easier and sleep better every night.


Making small adjustments to your sleep setup can lead to big improvements in your breathing and comfort. Choosing one of the best pillows for sleep apnea can support proper alignment, while adjusting your sleep position to reduce neck pain can further ease airway pressure.

 

For those exploring modern solutions, innovations in sleeping technology offer enhanced support tailored to apnea sufferers. You can also explore the full range of pillows designed specifically for sleep apnea to find your perfect match.


Transform your nights – Discover the comfort of our Scrumptious Side Pillow and Classic Scrumptious Pillow now!


By Honeydew Sleep


What Is Sleep Apnea?


Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It affects an estimated 10% to 15% of adults worldwide, though many cases go undiagnosed. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the airway becomes blocked, usually by the tongue or soft tissues at the back of the throat.


Symptoms can include:


  • Loud snoring

  • Gasping for air during sleep

  • Waking up tired, even after a full night’s sleep

  • Daytime fatigue and trouble concentrating


Untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.


Why Does Sleeping Position Matter for Sleep Apnea?


Your sleep position can either help keep your airway open or make it more likely to collapse. Gravity plays a big role here. When you sleep on your back, gravity pulls the tongue and soft tissues backward, which can block your airway and make sleep apnea worse.


But when you sleep on your side, your airway is less likely to collapse, making it easier to breathe and reducing the number and severity of apnea events. This simple change can make a real difference in your sleep quality and how you feel during the day.


Why Side Sleeping Is the Winner


Sleeping on your side is the most recommended position for managing sleep apnea, especially OSA. Here’s why:


  • Keeps the airway open, reducing the chance of it collapsing

  • Reduces snoring and the number of apnea events

  • May help with acid reflux, especially on the left side

  • Can improve oxygen levels and sleep quality

Some research even suggests that sleeping on your left side is particularly helpful for those with both sleep apnea and acid reflux, while the right side may be better for certain heart conditions.


Back Sleeping: Why It’s Not a Good Idea


If you have sleep apnea, sleeping on your back is generally not recommended. Here’s what happens:


  • Gravity pulls the tongue and soft tissues back, blocking the airway

  • Increases the number and severity of apnea events

  • More likely to cause loud snoring and frequent awakenings

  • Associated with more severe OSA in multiple studies


If you can’t avoid sleeping on your back, try elevating your head or turning your head to one side to help keep your airway open.


Stomach Sleeping: A Mixed Bag


Sleeping on your stomach can sometimes help keep the airway open, but it’s not always comfortable and can cause neck or back pain. It’s usually not the first choice, but it’s better than sleeping flat on your back if you have sleep apnea.


Positional Therapy: Training Yourself to Sleep on Your Side


If you’re used to sleeping on your back, switching to your side might take some practice. This is where positional therapy comes in. It’s a simple, cost-effective way to help your body get used to side sleeping.


Tips for Side Sleeping:


  • Use a supportive pillow designed for side sleepers, like the Honeydew Scrumptious Side Sleeper Pillow for perfect alignment and comfort.

  • Place a pillow behind your back to keep you from rolling onto your back during the night.

  • Try hugging a pillow in front of you for extra support.

  • Some people use positional devices or even sew a tennis ball into the back of their pajamas to discourage back sleeping.


Did you know?


A study found that positional therapy can reduce the apnea-hypopnea index from 26.7 to 6.0 events per hour, and people used the therapy for an average of 8 hours per night, 74% of nights.


How Effective Is Positional Therapy Compared to Other Treatments?


While CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is still the gold standard for treating moderate to severe sleep apnea, not everyone can tolerate it. For those with positional OSA (where symptoms are much worse on the back), positional therapy is a safe and effective alternative, especially for mild to moderate cases.



Treatment

Effectiveness (AHI reduction)

Compliance

Side Effects

CPAP

Highest

Moderate to low

Can be uncomfortable

Positional Therapy

Moderate to high (positional OSA)

High (short-term), lower (long-term)

Mild (skin irritation, shoulder pain)

Oral Appliance Therapy

Moderate

Moderate

Jaw discomfort


Discover Our Best Sleep Solutions - Honeydew Sleep


Discover More About Us - Honeydew Sleep


Welcome to Honeydew Sleep, a family-operated business with a heartfelt mission to revolutionize the way the world sleeps. With over 50 years of collective experience in the sleep industry, we've witnessed firsthand the profound impact that the right pillow can have. Imagine starting every day feeling rejuvenated, pain-free, and bursting with energy — this is the dream we offer at Honeydew.


Craftsmanship and Passion in Every Pillow


Our pillows aren’t just made; they’re crafted with precision, care, and genuine passion. From the luxurious fabrics to the innovative design, every component of our pillows is selected for its superior quality and ability to deliver an exceptional sleep experience. The attention to detail extends from the carefully selected fill materials to each stitch and seam, ensuring that every product is a testament to our commitment and love for better sleep.


Why Choose Honeydew Sleep?


Buying a Honeydew pillow is more than a purchase—it's an investment in your health. A good night's sleep has the power to transform your day, boosting your energy levels, lifting your mood, and enhancing your overall quality of life. We at Honeydew Sleep want you to live at your absolute best:


  • Rediscover Vitality: Wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day with vigor.

  • Upgrade Your Comfort: Experience the ultimate comfort designed for your specific sleep needs.

  • Embrace Joyful Mornings: Let go of morning grogginess and embrace a lifestyle filled with enthusiasm.


We are proud of our products and confident that you will cherish your Honeydew pillow just as much as we enjoy crafting them. Become a part of our family and embrace a life of energy, happiness, and impeccable comfort. Start transforming your life, one night at a time.


Join us on our mission: Improve lives, enhance sleep, and help everyone rediscover their most vibrant, energetic, and joyous selves. You deserve it.


Our Best Pillow - Honeydew Sleep



Description (The Scrumptious Side Pillow):


Experience unparalleled comfort with our unique Scrumptious Side Pillow, specially designed to cradle your neck and shoulders perfectly. Its distinctive curve aligns your spine while you rest, providing both comfort and support. The proprietary fill not only offers a luxurious feel but also excels in alleviating neck and shoulder discomfort.


Money Back Guarantee


You can try our pillow risk-free! We proudly offer a 60-night money-back guarantee on all purchases. 


Dimensions & Specifications


Our pillows are as exceptional in size as they are in comfort. Designed deliberately with our unique fill, these pillows come in specific dimensions and weights to optimize your sleep quality:


  • Queen Size: Approximately 27" x 15"

  • King Size: Approximately 30" x 17"


Each box includes one Scrumptious Side Pillow (note: pillowcase sold separately).


Care Instructions


Caring for your pillow is easy:


  1. Use a machine washable (and tumble dry) cover.

  2. Remove the fill before washing.

  3. Utilize the hidden zipper on the back for easy maintenance.


To enhance the pillow's hygiene and feel, consider using our high-quality pillowcases, which are not only easy to wash and dry but also make your pillow more breathable and incredibly soft.


Warranty Information


Our commitment to quality is backed by a 3-year limited warranty that covers any defects in materials and workmanship. 


Transform your sleep with the Scrumptious Side Pillow — designed for ultimate comfort and perfected for your wellness.


→ Take time to discover our products


→ Also our product on Amazon: Honeydew Scrumptious Cooling Side Sleeping Pillow for Adults | Best for Side Sleepers | for Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief | Neck Support Pillows for Sleeping | Made in The USA (Queen Size) 


The Classic Scrumptious Pillow



Description (The Classic Scrumptious Pillow)



The Classic Scrumptious Pillow features the distinct fill and fabric seen in our Scrumptious Side Pillow but presents it in the traditional rectangular pillow shape.



COMPLIMENTARY SHIPPING ACROSS THE NATION



We are pleased to offer complimentary shipping on all orders exceeding $50 within the United States. (See Full Details)



SATISFACTION GUARANTEE



Every purchase comes with a 60-night satisfaction guarantee. (See Full Details)



PRODUCT DIMENSIONS & DETAILS



Our pillows stand apart, defined by unique dimensions and weights, guided by our exceptional fill. These characteristics are intentionally selected to ensure your optimal sleep experience. 



Here's what to expect:


• The Queen size is approximately 27" x 15"

• The King size is approximately 30" x 17"



MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS



All our pillows come with machine-washable covers that can also be tumble-dried. Simply remove the fill using the discreet zipper at the back before washing.



For optimal cleanliness and to extend the life of your pillow, we recommend using one of our superb pillowcases. They not only shield your pillow but are also effortless to launder, enhancing the cooling effect and offering unparalleled softness. Your skin will surely appreciate it :)



WARRANTY



This product is protected by a 3-year limited warranty that covers material and manufacturing defects.



For the comprehensive warranty details, click (here).


→ Take time to discover our products


→ See also our product on Amazon: Honeydew Classic Scrumptious Pillow – Made in USA with Cooling Copper Gel Fill – Adjustable Bed Pillow for Back & Stomach Sleepers with Neck and Shoulder Pain, Quick Pain Relief (Queen Size)


Contact Us


Customer Service & Information



- 📧 Email: info@honeydewsleep.com 


Sales


- 📧 Email: sales@honeydewsleep.com 


Press


- 📧 Email: press@honeydewsleep.com 



Phone Contact



- 📞 Call or Text: (805) 477-9990

- 🕒 Phone Hours: Monday-Friday 10 AM-4 PM PST



Mailing Address



- 📬 Honeydew Sleep Co.

- 📍 1010 Lawrence Drive, Newbury Park, CA 91320



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