Reflux tends to be more problematic at night and when you’re lying on your back.
When you slightly elevate your head and upper body, gravity helps prevent the backward flow of stomach acids.
When you’re upright, gravity helps your sinuses drain.
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When you lie down, mucus tends to pool instead.
A wedge pillow placed between the knees can be especially helpful for relieving low back pain during latepregnancy.
The pillow at the head of the bed should be positioned to elevate the head and shoulders.
A wedge pillow can help you comfortably elevate swollen body parts when you’re lying down.
You could also place the thick edge under your feet for swollen feet, ankles, or calves.
This can also help with fluid retention from pregnancy or sitting for a prolonged time.
Sleeping with the head elevated by a 20-degree wedge pillow can help lower IOP, according to research.
Talk to your healthcare provider about how large an angle is ideal for you and your condition.
Ask about the ideal firmness, as well, as different materials provide different amounts of support.
If you have allergies, be sure to check the contents.
Pillow cases for wedge pillows are available as well, which can help you keep yours clean and allergen-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
A wedge pillow is a triangular pillow used to elevate the head several inches.
This can help to alleviate acid reflux, congestion, neck and back pain, and edema.
Wedge pillows are also sometimes placed under the knees for people with back problems.
Most wedge pillows are between 6 and 12 inches tall with an incline ranging from 30 to 45 degrees.
Your ideal pillow wedge height depends on your personal preferences and how you are using it.
Under-the-head wedges should be at least 8 inches tall, while lower wedges are better under the knees.
Most wedge pillows are made of foam, which retains more heat than standard pillows.
If you get too hot sleeping on a standard wedge look for one that helps to regulate temperature.
Temperature-regulating wedge pillows often include a gel-infused foam that draws heat away from your body.
They also sell breathable wedge pillow covers or cases that help to wick away heat and moisture.
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