Don't Lie Flat When You Sleep

“As you’re lying flat at night, acid from your stomach can creep up into the esophagus and throat, causing symptoms like chest tightness, chest discomfort, and burning in your throat”, says Dr. Frank Coletta, co-director of the Center for Sleep Medicine at Mount Sinai South Nassau.

In fact, according to one study, sleeping on your left side can reduce the amount of acid that enters your esophagus by as much as 71%. Numerous studies have shown that the best sleeping position for those with GERD is on their left side. The cause may be unknown, but anatomy may be able to shed some light on it. The esophagus enters the stomach on the right side. The lower esophageal sphincter is raised above the level of stomach acid while you sleep on your left side. On the other hand, because stomach acid covers the lower esophageal sphincter when you lie on your right side, you are more likely to experience reflux.