Sleeping on the left side does not harm heart health, according to a cardiologist, who says current evidence shows no significant cardiac risk from any sleep position.
Dr. Renato A. Apolito, a cardiologist and medical director of the cardiac catheterization laboratory at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, stated there is no research supporting the idea that left-side sleeping increases heart pressure or poses a danger to cardiovascular health.
He explained that sleep position choice depends on individual factors such as orthopedic needs, comfort, and body type, noting people naturally shift positions throughout the night.
The body is resilient to sleep position effects, and what matters more for heart health is whether a position affects breathing or causes musculoskeletal strain.
Dr. Apolito identified sleep apnea as a far greater and often underdiagnosed risk to heart health, linking it to high blood pressure and increased atrial fibrillation risk.
He advised that the most important step for those suspecting sleep apnea is proper diagnosis, noting symptoms include daytime fatigue, falling asleep during tasks, poor sleep quality, and snoring or breathing interruptions.
How sleep position affects heart health based on current evidence
No strong evidence exists that one sleep position is significantly better or worse for cardiac health, according to Dr. Apolito, who emphasized individual comfort and movement during sleep as key factors.
He noted that although concerns about left-side sleeping persist, particularly for those with heart failure, research does not support these claims, and the body adapts well to positional changes during rest.
Why sleep apnea poses a greater cardiovascular risk than sleep position
Sleep apnea contributes to high blood pressure and increases atrial fibrillation risk, making it a more significant threat to heart health than sleep position, Dr. Apolito stated.
He explained that sleep apnea is more common in individuals with larger neck circumference or certain body types but can affect people of normal weight, underscoring the need for awareness and diagnosis.
Is sleeping on the left side disappointing for your heart?
No, there is no research supporting the claim that sleeping on your left side harms heart health, according to Dr. Apolito.
What should I do if I suspect I have sleep apnea?
Reach out to your doctor for proper diagnosis if you suspect sleep apnea, as advised by Dr. Apolito.
