Can a Pillow Affect Your Health?

A recent study by scientists from the University of Manchester in England found that the average bed pillow contains millions of fungal spores. These spores accumulate in pillows due to moisture, dust, and other allergens floating around our homes. One of the most common fungus found in pillows is the species known as Aspergillus fumigatus. This fungus can increase the frequency and severity of asthma in adults. It can also cause a health condition called aspergillosis that affects people with compromised immune systems.

The older a pillow gets, the more potential allergens that it accumulates. Many people recognize that old pillows strangely feel heavier than new ones. One report relates that up to half of an older pillow's weight might be comprised of several different allergenic materials, including skin cells, mold, mildew, fungus, and dust mites. In some people, long-term exposure to these allergens can lead to asthma, nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation.

Several older pillows might very well contain synthetic flame-retardants that used to be required by law. These chemicals have been shown to possibly disrupt human thyroid hormone functioning and cause other adverse health effects.

Many pillows that brand themselves as hypoallergenic or orthopedic pillow options are synthetic foams. These foams come from polyester, which is sourced from crude oil. Over time, these pillows will emit plastic vapors that you will be breathing during the nighttime hours.

Are Natural Pillows Better?

Several different natural pillow alternatives are naturally hypoallergenic while not emitting any potentially dangerous VOCs that could negatively affect your health. Natural pillows rarely include PBDEs or other chemical flame-retardants.

Which Type of Pillow Is Best For Sleeping?

Your regular sleeping position will determine the type of pillow that is best for you. People who generally sleep on their back should search for thinner pillow options so that their heads and neck are not pushed uncomfortably forward. People who tend to sleep on their sides need the firmest pillows to fill up the space between the shoulder and the head. Stomach sleepers need the narrowest of pillows to avoid neck pain. Another flat pillow could be placed under the stomach to straighten out your spine.

What Is the Best Pillow for Allergy Sufferers?

Before searching for a natural pillow option, it is essential to know what materials you might be allergic to. While natural pillows offer several health advantages, certain people can be allergic to the materials used to stuff the pillows. For example, some of the more high-end natural pillows are stuffed with down or feathers. While this is undoubtedly comfortable, some people might be naturally sensitive to bird feathers and suffer sneezing, wheezing, and other respiratory effects. However, one study found that anti-allergy pillows made from synthetic materials are more likely to cause allergic reactions than feather-based pillows.