Mouth taping: why do people seal their mouths at night and how dangerous it is

Why do people seal their mouths

To breathe through the nose in a dream. This is exactly what proponents of mouth taping are hoping for, the name of a method that went viral on TikTok a few months ago. The trend is not losing its popularity. On the contrary, some companies already sell special adhesive plasters for the mouth.

Nasal breathing is helpful. It allows:

• reduce arterial pressure.
• Filter allergens.
• Regulate the temperature of the inhaled air.
• Humidify the air you breathe and keep your throat dry.
• Reduce bad breath.
• Reduce anxiety.
• Get rid of sleep apnea caused by lack of sleep.

At rest, a person should breathe through the nose, but some problems (for example, stuffy nose due to allergies, curvature partitions or enlarged tonsils) force us to use the mouth as a backup source of oxygen. It is a reserve because it is deprived of a number of advantages that taping supporters are trying to return.

Does mouth taping work?

In short, no. Much of the method's supposed usefulness is shattered by the lack of clear evidence. There is not enough research, and all of them were carried out on small groups of people, and some were refuted.

One small study showedthat 30 fewer patients snored with their mouths sealed. But another study did not fix no change in the status of 36 patients with asthma.

A 2022 experiment demonstratedthat because of the tape on the lips, patients only began to puff out their cheeks and puff in their sleep, but did not stop breathing through their mouths.

Taping has been around for a long time. But this method is not used in any reputable clinic for the treatment of sleep disorders.

What can harm the taping of the mouth

First of all, it will aggravate existing problems, or even leave a person without oxygen.

Dr. Ann Kearney of Stanford University claimsthat the method is definitely not suitable for those who hear themselves when they breathe through their nose.

Dr. Jennifer McVidge of Dent Neurological Institute does not recommend parents to tap their children's mouths. After all, the method was somehow studied only on adults. And if they can still wake up and peel off the interfering adhesive tape, then children's defense mechanisms are not sufficiently developed.

In addition, tape on the skin Maybe call allergic reaction or irritation. Conventional facial taping has been practiced for a long time, but the skin of the lips is more sensitive and easier to damage.

Should You Try Mouth Taping?

Probably not yet. After all, the effectiveness of the method has not been proven, and it has quite a lot of side effects.

But if you really want to try, be sure to consult your doctor. Well, remember that the adhesive tape must be porous and elastic, and its adhesive substance should not cause allergic reactions. It is recommended to test it during the day, sticking to the skin for ten minutes.

How to replace the taping of the mouth

There is no universal remedy. But a few simple tips can help.

Try sleeping on your side

To combat mild forms of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, there is a long-established practice of sleeping on your side. Many studies showthat people snore less in this position and breathe more confidently.

If sleeping on your side is uncomfortable for you, it may be the bed itself. Well-chosen mattress and pillow can align the spine and reduce the load on it.

Buy nasal strips

Alternative option for fight with snoring and stuffy nose - nasal strips. These are stickers made of hypoallergenic material that can help with a runny nose. The sticky side is usually coated with essential oils to help relieve cold and allergy symptoms.

Take care of your sleep hygiene

Often from sleep problems Can get rid of if installed sleeping modeThat is, start falling asleep and waking up at the same time every day. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine before bed, and turn off all screens an hour before going to bed. During sleep, protect yourself from unnecessary sources of light and noise.

Go in for sports

Lack of daily physical activity can greatly affect the quality of your sleep. For example, according to experts at the Mayo Clinic, regular exercise may help with the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

Even 30 minutes of brisk walking or cycling can make a big difference. In addition, sports help to lose extra pounds, and they are often the causes of breathing problems.

Practice good oral hygiene

Many resort to taping because of bad breath, but it is not necessarily breath related. Oral hygiene, including regular brushing of the teeth and tongue and rinsing the mouth, can help.

Go see a doctor

All the methods described do not guarantee success, so sometimes it's easiest to make an appointment with a doctor right away. The specialist will help to accurately determine the causes of improper breathing and prescribe the appropriate treatment.