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Which side do you lay on to relieve stomach pain?

I have stomach pain and want to fix it. Which side do you lay on to relieve stomach pain?

5 Answers

The best side to lay on to relieve stomach pain can vary depending on the cause of your pain. Here are some general guidelines:

1. **Right Side:** Laying on your right side may help relieve symptoms of acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Elevating your head with a pillow can further reduce acid reflux symptoms. However, if you have issues with your gallbladder or pancreas, this position may exacerbate the pain.

2. **Left Side:** Laying on your left side can promote better digestion and may be helpful for individuals with acid reflux. It can also reduce pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which can help prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.

3. **Fetal Position:** Curling into a fetal position (knees tucked toward the chest) can sometimes provide relief from gas and bloating. This position can help release trapped gas in the digestive system.

4. **Back:** If you're experiencing stomach pain due to indigestion or discomfort from gas, lying on your back with your head elevated can also provide relief. Placing a pillow under your head and shoulders can help.

5. **Sitting Upright:** In some cases, sitting upright in a chair or on the edge of a bed may be more comfortable, especially if you have indigestion or heartburn. This position can help reduce pressure on the stomach.

It's essential to consider the underlying cause of your stomach pain and how it responds to different positions. If your pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as vomiting, fever, blood in the stool, or unexplained weight loss), it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires evaluation and treatment by a healthcare professional.

Ultimately, the most comfortable position may vary from person to person, so it's important to listen to your body and choose a position that provides the most relief for your specific symptoms. If stomach pain persists or worsens, consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
This is not the way of healing stomach pain. You have to be evaluated first to pinpoint the core of the problem and then get appropriate treatment.
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Sleeping on left side usually decreases abdominal pain and acid reflux.
Left lateral decubitus
There is no position that will consistently alleviate stomach pain. The vast majority of sources of pain in the abdomen are not influenced at all by body position.