Feeling unwell when lying down is a common and often unsettling experience that can disrupt rest and daily life. This symptom, while frequently dismissed as minor discomfort, can be linked to various underlying issues. Understanding the potential causes can help in addressing this complaint, which ranges from a mild annoyance to a sign of something that may require medical attention.
Underlying Conditions That Cause Sickness When Lying Down
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a frequent cause of discomfort when reclining. In GERD, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Lying flat allows stomach contents to more easily travel upwards, leading to heartburn, nausea, or a sour taste in the mouth. This can be particularly bothersome after large meals or before bedtime.
Sinus-related problems, such as post-nasal drip, can also contribute to feeling sick. When lying down, mucus from the sinuses can drain into the back of the throat and stomach, causing irritation, a cough, or nausea. This can be particularly noticeable during allergy season or with a cold, as increased mucus production leads to more drainage. The constant irritation can lead to a persistent feeling of unwellness.
Inner ear disorders, including Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), frequently trigger dizziness or a spinning sensation when changing head positions, such as lying down or turning over in bed. BPPV occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals, called otoconia, dislodge from their normal position in the utricle and move into one of the semicircular canals of the inner ear. These displaced crystals interfere with the fluid movement that signals head position to the brain, leading to sudden, brief episodes of vertigo. These episodes are often intense but short-lived.
Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, can also result in feeling unwell upon lying down or waking. The interruptions in breathing lead to decreased oxygen levels and increased carbon dioxide, which can cause morning headaches, fatigue, and sometimes nausea or a general feeling of sickness. The body’s struggle for oxygen during apneic events can strain various systems, contributing to these symptoms.
Anxiety can manifest physically, with symptoms like nausea or a churning stomach, which might be more noticeable when lying still and focusing on internal sensations. The body’s “fight or flight” response can activate the digestive system in ways that lead to discomfort. Heart conditions can sometimes present with symptoms like nausea or lightheadedness, particularly if there are issues with blood flow or heart rhythm. Congestive heart failure, for example, can lead to fluid buildup that affects the digestive system, causing nausea or loss of appetite.
Why Lying Down Can Make You Feel Sicker
The act of lying down significantly alters the body’s physiological state, which can exacerbate certain conditions. For instance, gravity, a constant force when upright, no longer assists in keeping stomach acid contained when a person is horizontal. This allows gastric acid to more easily flow back into the esophagus, directly contributing to the burning sensation and nausea associated with acid reflux. This effect is particularly pronounced when lying flat immediately after eating.
Changes in fluid pressure within the inner ear are also affected by position. When lying down, particularly if there are issues like BPPV, the dislodged otoconia can move more freely within the semicircular canals, sending confusing signals to the brain about head movement and leading to intense vertigo. The fluid dynamics within the vestibular system are highly sensitive to changes in head orientation, making positional changes a key trigger.
Altered blood flow patterns occur as well when transitioning from an upright to a prone position. While the body typically adjusts, certain conditions can make these changes less efficient, potentially leading to a temporary drop in blood pressure or altered circulation to the brain, which can manifest as lightheadedness or nausea. For individuals with certain cardiovascular issues, these positional changes can further complicate blood distribution, impacting overall well-being.
Breathing patterns are also impacted by lying down. In conditions like sleep apnea, the prone position can worsen airway obstruction due to the relaxation of throat muscles and the effect of gravity on the tongue and soft palate. This obstruction leads to reduced oxygen intake and disturbed sleep, contributing to a general feeling of unwellness upon waking or while attempting to sleep. The reduced oxygen can also strain the cardiovascular system over time.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Seeking medical advice becomes important if feeling sick when lying down is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. If you experience severe pain, such as sharp chest pain, or difficulty breathing, immediate medical attention is necessary. These symptoms could indicate a serious underlying condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Persistent vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or symptoms that worsen progressively over time are also strong indicators to consult a doctor. These changes suggest that the body is struggling with something more than a minor, temporary issue. Additionally, if the symptoms significantly interfere with your daily life, disrupt your sleep regularly, or cause considerable distress, a healthcare professional can help identify the root cause and recommend appropriate interventions.
Steps You Can Take for Relief
Several strategies can help alleviate symptoms of sickness when lying down, focusing on lifestyle adjustments and simple home remedies.
Elevating the head of your bed by six to eight inches can be beneficial, especially for those experiencing acid reflux. This can be achieved by placing risers under the bedposts or using a wedge pillow, which allows gravity to help keep stomach contents down. This simple adjustment can significantly reduce nighttime symptoms.
Adjusting eating habits can also make a difference. Avoiding large meals, especially within two to three hours of bedtime, can reduce the amount of food and acid in the stomach when you lie down. Limiting trigger foods such as fatty or spicy dishes, caffeine, and alcohol, particularly in the evening, can also mitigate symptoms like heartburn and nausea. Smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may also be helpful.
Staying adequately hydrated throughout the day supports overall bodily functions and can sometimes help with mild nausea, though it is important not to overhydrate right before bed. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, can help manage anxiety-related symptoms, as stress can exacerbate physical discomfort. Addressing underlying lifestyle factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking, can also contribute to reducing symptoms, particularly those related to reflux or respiratory issues. These general tips can offer relief, but they do not replace professional medical advice if symptoms are severe or persistent.