Can memory foam pillows cause headaches?

What is a memory foam pillow?

A memory foam pillow is a pillow that is made from viscoelastic foam which becomes softer when heat and pressure are added. They are designed to mould to the shape and contours of your head, neck and shoulders, this will offer you support that is personalised for you.

Memory foam pillows are made for individuals who unfortunately experience several sleeping problems, these sleeping problems are snoring, pressure pain in the neck and back and restless sleepers. When you are using a memory foam pillow your head is being supported by the soft memory foam cushioning that is designed to mould to your body and provide personalised support. You can buy memory foam pillows in a variety of types and sizes.

The best pillow for side sleepers is memory foam pillows. This is because they help to alleviate pressure points in your back as well as mould to the contours of your body. Memory foam is a strong type of foam that can mould to the shape of your head and neck as well as keeping its original shape too.

Memory foam also referred to as being full of air or customised pillows are also a good choice for individuals who like to sleep on their stomach or side. This is because it moulds to the contours of your head and neck. Memory foam pillows also help to minimise the pressure points that are at the front of your head which helps you have a comfortable and well-rested sleep.

Benefits and negatives of foam pillows:

Benefits-

Remember contours- memory foam remembers the contours of your head, neck and shoulders perfectly. This is vital as it helps in keeping your spine aligned whereas standard pillows usually tilt your head at an incline.

May stop snoring- standard pillows usually force your head to face upwards which closes off the air passages. With a memory foam pillow your head is kept aligned with your neck and spine this helps your air passages stay open and usually helps stop snoring.

Soothes neck, shoulder and back pain- if you are an individual who has pain in your neck, shoulder and back then a memory foam pillow will be of great benefit to you.

Relief from pressure points- memory foam pillows help to provide relief from pressure points that are giving you pain it does this by dispersing your weight and moulding to your head.

Spine alignment- memory foam pillows help to keep your spine correctly aligned. The best pillow will keep your neck aligned with your lower back.

Negatives-

Off-gassing- memory foam pillows have chemical off-gassing this is because of the manufacturing process of the chemicals that are utilised in creating the foam.

Retains body heat- memory foam pillows are sensitive to temperature, and this includes body heat. Memory foam pillows absorb heat.

Climate change will affect the firmness of the pillow- memory foam pillows are sensitive to temperature changes. The sensitivity in these pillows is what allows them to change shape. Body heat will cause the memory foam pillow to become soft.