Are You Using High Pillow? You May Want To Reconsider Your Decision And Bid Goodbye To Morning Woes

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Probably you are tucked into bed, ready to drift off into dreamland. But wait - your pillow feels more like a mountain than a fluffy cloud. You're practically sleeping at a 90-degree angle! While it might seem like a good idea to be closer to the stars, using a high pillow can have some unexpected side effects and one of them can be waking up with neck pain and disturbed sleep which will surely ruin your day and culprit behind your morning woes. Here's what you need to do to keep your health under check.

Health Problems Due To Usage Of High Pillows
Using a high pillow can force your neck into an unnatural position for hours. This misalignment strains your neck muscles and can disrupt your spine's natural curve. Over time, this can lead to chronic neck pain, stiffness, and even more severe health issues.

Experts suggest that the ideal pillow should align your head and neck with your spine. Anything too high or too low disrupts this alignment, affecting your sleep and overall health. Moreover, the wrong pillow can also contribute to headaches, shoulder pain, and discomfort, leading to a restless night. Here is a list of health issues that will affect your life due to the usage of wrong pillows.

1. Neck Pain
One of the most common side effects of using a high pillow is neck pain. When you use a pillow that is too high, it can cause your neck to be in an unnatural position, leading to strain on the muscles and joints. Over time, this can result in chronic neck pain and stiffness.

2. Poor Posture
Using a high pillow can also contribute to poor posture, especially if you tend to sleep on your back or stomach. The elevation of the pillow can cause your head to be pushed forward, putting strain on your neck and spine. This can lead to postural issues and discomfort during the day.

3. Shoulder Pain
Sleeping with a high pillow can also lead to shoulder pain, especially if you sleep on your side. The elevation of the pillow can cause your shoulder to be pushed up, leading to compression of the joints and muscles. This can result in pain and discomfort in the shoulder area.

4. Headaches
Using a high pillow can also contribute to headaches, especially if you tend to sleep with your neck in a strained position. The tension in the neck muscles can lead to tension headaches, which can be quite debilitating.

5. Poor Sleep Quality
Perhaps the most significant side effect of using a high pillow is poor sleep quality. When your neck and spine are not properly aligned, it can lead to discomfort and restless sleep. This can result in waking up feeling tired and groggy, even after a full night's sleep.

6. Increased Snoring
Using a high pillow can also contribute to snoring, especially if you tend to sleep on your back. The elevation of the pillow can cause your airway to be partially blocked, leading to snoring. This can disrupt your sleep and even lead to more serious health issues such as sleep apnea.

7. Increased Risk of Acid Reflux
Sleeping with a high pillow can also increase the risk of acid reflux, especially if you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The elevation of the pillow can cause stomach acid to travel up into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and discomfort.

8. Skin Irritation
Using a high pillow can also lead to skin irritation, especially if the pillow is made of synthetic materials. The elevation of the pillow can cause the skin on your face and neck to be pressed against the pillow, leading to irritation and acne.

9. Poor Circulation
Sleeping with a high pillow can also lead to poor circulation, especially if the pillow is too firm. The elevation of the pillow can put pressure on the blood vessels in your neck, leading to decreased blood flow to your head and neck.

10. Increased Risk of Eye Problems
Using a high pillow can also increase the risk of eye problems, especially if you tend to sleep with your face pressed against the pillow. The pressure from the pillow can lead to increased pressure in the eyes, which can contribute to eye strain and other eye issues.

Why Choosing The Right Pillow Is Crucial
Selecting the appropriate pillow is more than just comfort; it's about health. Look for a pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck. Memory foam pillows, for instance, are recommended because they mold to the shape of your head and neck, providing optimal support.
Additionally, your sleeping position should guide your pillow choice. Side sleepers might benefit from thicker pillows to fill the gap between their head and mattress, while back sleepers might need a flatter pillow to maintain alignment. Stomach sleepers, however, often require a very thin pillow to avoid angling their necks upwards.

Adjusting Habits For Better Sleep
Besides choosing the right pillow, other habits can improve sleep quality. Ensure your mattress offers good support and consider stretching or yoga before bed to relax neck muscles. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule also contributes to better sleep health. Therefore, it is essential that you embrace these changes for a pain-free wake-up and a better day ahead.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.