Orthopnea is the medical term for shortness of breath when lying down. People who experience this condition often have to sleep with their heads propped up on pillows. Many conditions, including obesity and heart failure, can give rise to orthopnea.

Is it normal to not be able to breathe when lying down?

Sleep apnea is one of the most common reasons people have a shortness of breath while lying down. Often confused with mere snoring, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes shallow breaths or pauses in breathing while asleep. The muscles in your throat relax and obstruct your airways, especially when lying on your back.

What is the name for shortness of breath when lying down?

People with more severe heart failure may experience shortness of breath when they lie down. The medical term for this symptom is orthopnea (say "or-THAWP-nee-uh"). The severity of this symptom usually depends on how flat you are lying—the flatter you lie, the more you feel short of breath.