Why Can'T I Lie On My Back?

[Sarah4444]

I am seriously running out of positions. For the last few weeks I have been trying to be upright more, but have had trouble with recliners. I wasn't sure why, but now wonder if it's the same problems I am having lying on my back. When I lean my head back on something it seems to cause chest discomfort, a strange sensation in my neck, trouble breathing...am I just imagining this one, or does anyone else feel like this? If so, any ideas why? Thanks in advance for any insights you might have.

Sarah

[sue1234]

I don't know why, but I can't lie down on my back either. I can in a recliner, but not in bed. It feels like I can't breathe, and kind of feels like my stomach is up in my chest pressing into my lungs. I really wish I had a gi doctor that would address that!

[Simmy]

Have you tried placing a small or tubular pillow behind your neck when you lie flat? Perhaps there?s some esophageal constriction going on.

[lissy]

I think when we lay on our back it causes the BP to drop even more and presses on nerves in the back which leads to breathing discomfort . I compare it to the same as when your pregnant and your suppose to lay on your sides. Just my thought but your not alone I feel like I will pass out when I lay on my back so I never do it anymore...

Lissy

[nmorgen]

I have this happen to me. I found that using an extremely flat pillow or no pillow at all helps. I also lift my chin up to keep the airway open. You can also try lifting your chin and turning your head a little. For some it could be a blood pressure drop, but for me that isn't what is going on. If you haven't had one, you might need to get a sleep study. I had one, but I didn't need a machine. I hope you find something that works for you. Good luck.

[dianne.fraser]

I also get these symptoms, but usually only when something has aggravated my illness (eg exercise or lack of rest) or during full-blown exacerbations of my illness. So far, I've always been able to ease these symptoms by using the usual approaches - rest, laying flat, fluids and salt. My neck soreness has been stopped by regular treatments by my neurological physiotherapist and cranial osteopath - I see my therapists only for preventative care now.

My chest discomfort and breathing problems have also been relieved by Lexapro, although I don't tolerate it well or for long.

With best wishes

Dianne

[toddm1960]

I have these problems, I'm much better since I raised the head of my bed 4". Even then I can't fall asleep on my back, just on my sides. I even get the throat closing feelings when I bend forward. Not sure what causes it all, but I hope you can find things to help you feel better.

[Sarah4444]

Thanks for the advice and for letting me know I'm not alone. A couple of weeks ago, when things were really bad, I think my bp was dropping when I lay down, but now it does sound like something more mechanical. Simmy - why would there be esophageal constriction?

If anyone figures this out, please let me know!

[Simmy]

As with CPR, you want your head tilted back to open the airway completely. The closer your chin is to your chest the more you close your airway. A neck pillow (or some sort) helps to keep your head and chest in proper alignment. That may not be the case in this situation, but it could contribute.

[toddm1960]

Sarah4 in my case I have esophageal spasms, laying flat or leaning forward seems to set this off. Have you had an esophageal monomitry?

[issie]

As mentioned before - there could also be an obstuction - like sleep apena. I agree, sometimes I can't lie on my back because my bp does drop out. There are times that I have to sleep sitting almost up to keep my pressure up. I also have the apenea and even with a CPAP - sometimes that's not enough - I have to remain inclined. Not alone in this one.