Acid reflux? A bed wedge could provide nighttime relief

If you’re one of the four adults in the UK who suffers from heartburn and acid reflux, you know that laying down to get some rest is far from a relaxing experience.

Acid reflux is an unpleasant reaction some of us experience at night or after eating certain foods. 

Sometimes when we go to bed, acid reflux causes our stomach acid to move up to our esophagus, mouth, and throat. This leads to a painful burning sensation that often makes it impossible to sleep. 

Here’s how a bed wedge can help nighttime acid reflux symptoms

A bed wedge is a triangle-shaped pillow that’s gently tapered down to elevate your head and shoulders over your stomach. The lower end of the bed wedge should come down to your lower back, and the higher end should comfortably rest under your head. 

Doctors recommend using a bed wedge to elevate your upper torso about six to eight inches to minimize acid reflux symptoms and improve sleep quality, according to Head & Neck Oncology doctors at Oxford University. Elevating your upper torso makes it less likely for your stomach acid to move upwards and cause pain while you’re trying to rest. 

The Putnams Bed Wedge for acid reflux sufferers is designed to be the perfect sleep solution. Our bed wedge is available in standard, memory foam or latex and comes in several sizes to fit your unique needs. 

All of our high-quality bed wedges help relieve pressure on your back and gently elevate your torso to provide relief from acid reflux symptoms. Plus, the new latex bed wedge is hypoallergenic and can help you stay cool for even better sleep.  

Bed wedges are ideal for side and back sleepers because it helps align the spine, minimise tension, and even help with snoring. However, be aware that bed wedges may cause back pain for people who sleep on their stomachs. 

 

Other tips for better sleep with acid reflux

Getting good sleep with acid reflux shouldn’t feel impossible. Here are a few more things that doctors say can help you get a better night’s sleep. 

1. Don’t eat for three hours before going to bed 
2. Eat smaller meals more often during the day rather than three large meals
3. If you’re overweight, try to lose weight to relieve pressure on your stomach 
4. Take an antacid after a meal or before bed
5. Melatonin may also help get better sleep with acid reflux
6. Avoid foods that trigger symptoms, especially before bed
7. Wear loose-fitting clothing around your torso 
8. See your doctor if you have heartburn most days for three weeks or longer - you could have a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.

See why the UK has trusted Putnams for 40 years

Each Putnams Bed Wedge is made with care by our team in Devon and comes with a two-year guarantee. 

For 40 years, Putnams has produced quality comfort products recommended by medical professionals. 

The family-owned company is also committed to reducing its impact on the environment. Putnams has partnered with several environmental groups, using more environmentally friendly materials, and utilising locally sourced products whenever possible.

 

Sources

https://gutscharity.org.uk/advice-and-information/symptoms/heartburn-and-reflux/ 

https://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/digestive-health-program/conditions/gerd 

https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/patient-guide/leaflets/files/11515Preflux.pdf 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/acid-reflux-at-night#symptoms