What to Know About Mouth Breathing

What is mouth breathing?

Mouth breathing is when a person breathes through their mouth instead of their nose. It can be a chronic condition, or it can occur temporarily due to congestion, allergies, or other factors.

What causes mouth breathing?

There are many potential causes of mouth breathing, including:

* Nasal congestion: This can be caused by allergies, colds, flu, or other conditions.

* Deviated septum: This is a condition in which the nasal septum (the bone and cartilage that separates the two nostrils) is off-center.

* Narrow nostrils: This can be a congenital condition, or it can occur as a result of trauma.

* Enlarged adenoids: These are two small glands located at the back of the throat. They can become enlarged due to allergies or infections.

* Sleep apnea: This is a condition in which a person stops breathing for short periods of time during sleep.

What are the symptoms of mouth breathing?

Symptoms of mouth breathing can include:

* Dry mouth

* Bad breath

* Hoarseness

* Sore throat

* Difficulty sleeping

* Snoring

* Fatigue

* Headaches

* Poor concentration

* Nasal congestion

How is mouth breathing diagnosed?

Mouth breathing can be diagnosed by a doctor or dentist through a physical examination, medical history, and symptoms. In some cases, additional tests, such as an allergy test or sleep study, may be necessary.

How is mouth breathing treated?

Treatment for mouth breathing depends on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

* Nasal decongestants: These can help to relieve congestion and make it easier to breathe through the nose.

* Antihistamines: These can help to relieve allergy symptoms.

* Surgery: This may be necessary to correct a deviated septum or enlarged adenoids.

* Behavioral therapy: This can help a person to learn how to breathe through their nose.

How can mouth breathing be prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent mouth breathing, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, including:

* Avoid triggers that cause nasal congestion, such as allergens and irritants.

* Use a nasal decongestant or saline spray to keep your nasal passages clear.

* Practice nasal breathing exercises to strengthen the muscles in your nose.

* See your doctor or dentist if you have any symptoms of mouth breathing.