Admit it: You have done it more than once. It might even be your preferred sleeping place.
Your recliner can be very comfy and a great place to grab a nap, but should you sleep there every night? Sleep experts say that it's OK, but you should be aware of the benefits and drawbacks.
If you have acid reflux, sleeping in a recliner is probably better. In a 2012 study, researchers found that 65 percent of those with acid reflux had a decrease in sleep disturbances when they elevated their heads, according to Healthline.
Similarly, symptoms of sleep apnea are reduced with elevated heads, suggesting that a recliner may be helpful.
People often mention breathing problems as the reason for sleeping in a recliner, but a reclined position can also cause blood congestion and reduced oxygen flow. Ask your doctor if you should be concerned.
One advantage of a bed is that it allows you to stretch out and rest your whole body, thus decreasing pressure points. Even in a fully reclined chair, your body weight won't be distributed as evenly. Over time, you might find that sleeping in a recliner causes tightness in hips, calves and hamstrings, according to USA Today. It could even cause muscle tightening in joints that could lead to impaired movement, balance, and circulation in the legs.
Still, most experts agree that sleeping in a recliner is safe and perhaps best for some medical problems. Just be sure to have enough blankets and a pillow to support your neck or lower back if needed.
