2026-05-25 11:02:03

Sleeping on your side could be the key to beating dangerous snoring and sleep apnoea, according to new research.

Experts say simply changing sleep position may prove as effective as traditional treatments for many sufferers of obstructive sleep apnoea, a condition linked to heart disease and stroke.

The disorder happens when the muscles in the throat relax too much during sleep, temporarily blocking the airway and causing loud snoring and repeated breathing pauses.

Researchers revealed that around 75 per cent of patients suffer from so-called positional sleep apnoea, where symptoms are triggered by sleeping flat on their back.

Now scientists believe side-sleeping therapy could offer a simple and long-lasting fix.

The findings, presented at the 2026 American Thoracic Society International Conference last week, showed patients using positional therapy devices experienced major improvements, with benefits lasting long after treatment stopped.

These devices are designed to stop sleepers rolling on to their backs and include vibrating belts that prompt users to change position or specially designed vests with a ball sewn into the back.

After six months of treatment, more than two-thirds of patients continued sleeping on their sides and were able to control their sleep apnoea without relying on devices. Researchers found the improvements were still present a year later.

Current treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea usually involves a CPAP machine, which pumps air through a face mask overnight to keep airways open.

But many patients struggle with the equipment.

Studies suggest up to half stop using CPAP because of discomfort, leaving experts searching for alternatives.

Dr Irene Cano-Pumarega, head of the sleep unit at Madrid’s Ramon y Cajal Hospital and one of the study researchers, said: “We observed that positional therapy was not only effective – comparable to CPAP – but also better tolerated.”

There is currently no licensed drug for sleep apnoea.

Doctors warn untreated sleep apnoea can do more than disturb a partner’s sleep, increasing the risk of serious complications including heart disease, stroke and extreme daytime tiredness.

The latest findings suggest that for many patients, the answer may be as straightforward as turning over.

Visit Bang Bizarre (main website)