Tonsillitis is a condition in which the tonsils, a pair of small lymphoid organs situated at the back of the throat become inflamed and swollen. It can be quite difficult to manage as it makes it problematic to swallow, speak and even breathe. There are multiple triggers for tonsillitis ranging from bacteria and viruses to environmental factors. Achieving a good night’s sleep plays an important part in supporting the body’s ability to heal during tonsillitis. Here are some helpful sleeping positions to consider should you be suffering from tonsillitis.
Sleep on your back
When experiencing tonsillitis, it is important to keep your head elevated. Try to use an additional pillow to help to keep your head and neck elevated, thereby reducing the severity of swelling and pain. Sleeping on your back is a good choice for those with tonsillitis, as this will naturally keep the throat lifted and aid with breathing. This position can also help to promote healing by encouraging blood circulation.
Avoid lying on your stomach
Lying on your stomach is not recommended for those with tonsillitis. This is because it can exert pressure on the throat making swallowing more difficult and uncomfortable. This position can also lead to the throat becoming dried out, which will only exacerbate the pain and discomfort. It is a good idea to avoid lying on your stomach until the tonsillitis has been relieved.
Lie on your side
Lying on your side is a good sleeping position to consider if you are experiencing tonsillitis. This position is comfortable for most people and is less likely to exert unnecessary pressure on the throat. Lying on your side will also help to keep your throat and airways open, making it easier to breathe at night. Additionally, lying on your side can help to promote healing and reduce swelling .
Consider propping up the mattress
If you find it uncomfortable to lay on your back, you can consider propping up the mattress to achieve a good angle. This is great for keeping your head and neck elevated and can help to reduce the intensity of throat pain and swelling. To do this simply take a pillow or a sturdier object and place it under the head of the mattress to create the right angle.
Know when to seek medical attention
If you are experiencing a worsening or persistent pain, if the tonsillitis is interfering with your ability to swallow or breathe properly or if you are struggling to eat, then it is important to seek medical attention. Additionally, if you are noticing new symptoms such as swelling of the face or neck, fever, difficulty talking or breathing then it may be an indicator of an advanced tonsillitis. In these instances it is best to seek medical attention to receive timely treatment.
Tonsillitis can be difficult to manage and can significantly affect the ability to sleep comfortably. The right sleeping positions can help to manage symptoms, reduce swelling and promote healing. It is important to keep in mind that while these techniques can help to offer relief, it is important to know when to seek appropriate medical attention.
**Key Takeaways**
Tonsillitis can make it difficult to get a good nights sleep. The right sleeping positions can help to manage symptoms, reduce swelling and promote healing. Sleeping on your back and keeping your head elevated is a good choice for those with tonsillitis. Lying on your side is another comfortable position, while it is best to avoid lying on your stomach until the tonsillitis has been relieved. Propping up the mattress is a good alternative to lying on your back and can also help to reduce the intensity of throat pain and swelling. It is important to be aware of when to seek medical attention, particularly if the symptoms persist or if new symptoms develop.
