Why Your Sleeping Position Matters
Picture Jane, a 62-year-old retiree, waking up groggy with a stiff neck after sleeping on her stomach all night. She didn’t know this habit could affect her stroke risk. Research from the Journal of Neurology suggests that stomach sleeping—prone position—may reduce blood flow to the brain by twisting the neck unnaturally. This restricts carotid arteries, critical for delivering oxygen-rich blood. For seniors like Jane, this can elevate stroke risk, especially if paired with conditions like high blood pressure. But there’s good news: small adjustments helped Jane feel sharper and safer. Want to know what she changed?
The Prone Position Problem
Stomach sleeping feels cozy for some, but it’s a hidden risk. Your neck twists to one side for hours, potentially compressing arteries and reducing blood flow. A 2023 study in Stroke Research found that prolonged prone sleeping correlates with a 15% higher stroke risk in older adults. Add snoring or sleep apnea, and the danger climbs. Why keep sleeping this way when a simple shift could protect your brain? Let’s uncover the first benefit of changing your position.
