Why does that matter?

For some people, sleeping flat on the back can make snoring and obstructive sleep apnea worse.

When you lie on your back, gravity can allow the tongue and other soft tissues in the throat to move backward.

This may narrow the airway.

Side sleeping can reduce this effect for some people.

And this benefit isn't exclusive to the left side.

Both left- and right-side sleeping can be preferable to back sleeping for certain people with positional breathing problems.

If you notice that you snore more when sleeping on your back and breathe more comfortably on your side, that is useful information.

However, side sleeping should not be considered a cure for sleep apnea.

6. Pay Attention to Loud Snoring and Breathing Pauses

If you always sleep on your right side because it seems to help you breathe, that's fine.

But don't assume that improved comfort means an underlying breathing disorder has been solved.

Obstructive sleep apnea can cause repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep.

Possible signs include:

Some people with sleep apnea experience symptoms even when sleeping on their side.

If these symptoms occur regularly, medical evaluation is more appropriate than simply experimenting with different sleeping positions.

7. It May Change How You Perceive Your Heartbeat

Some people become concerned when they lie on their right or left side and suddenly become more aware of their heartbeat.

This can feel strange.

You might notice:

Changing body position can alter how sensations are transmitted through the chest.

Your heart also changes its position slightly relative to the chest wall when you move.

In addition, lying quietly in bed removes many of the distractions that occupy your attention during the day.

As a result, you may simply notice bodily sensations that you would normally ignore.

That doesn't necessarily mean anything is wrong.

However, new or persistent palpitations should not automatically be blamed on your sleeping position.