Tag Archives: #snoring

Mouth Tape

Posted on by

Snoring is a condition that many people suffer from. They try different methods to try to prevent themselves or their loved ones from snoring.  

One method that has become a popular trend on TikTok, which is used as a quick fix to stop snoring, is mouth taping. Mouth taping is the act of taping the mouth shut with medical-grade, skin-safe adhesive tape, so the wearer is forced to breathe through their nose instead of their mouth.  

The theory behind mouth taping is that it helps you breathe better through your nose, which is considered healthier than mouth breathing. Breathing through your nose while you sleep has several benefits, as it may help: 

  • Lower your blood pressure 
  • Improve oxygen levels 
  • Trap and filter out allergens found in the air 
  • Humidify and warm the air you breathe 
  • Moisturize and soothe sore throats 
  • Improve bad breath and oral health 
  • Improve snoring  
  • Improve dry mouth 
  • Develop structural improvements to your jawline 

However, taping your mouth shut can be more harmful than good, as there are many potential risks and complications, such as: 

  • Difficulty breathing 
  • Redness, irritation, or allergic reactions on your lips and skin 
  • Difficulty falling and staying asleep 
  • Increased anxiety if you don’t like the feeling of having your mouth taped shut or have trouble breathing through your nose 

If you have always been a mouth breather, these complications may become increasingly difficult, and you can have a hard time adjusting to mouth tape.  

It is recommended never to use mouth tape if you have: 

  • Heart issues  
  • Nasal obstruction 
  • Nasal congestion 
  • Sinus infections  
  • Chronic allergies  
  • Deviated septum  
  • Enlarged tonsils 

For individuals who are already struggling with conditions such as nasal obstruction or chronic allergies, having their mouth taped closed forces them to rely on only their nose for air, which can potentially lead to severe respiratory distress, significant drops in oxygen levels, and exacerbation of underlying health issues during sleep. 

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough scientific evidence that shows that mouth tape works to stop snoring. The problem is that there are so few studies on mouth tape, and those that exist are focused on very small populations.  

According to the National Library of Medicine, a small study showed that 30 people snored less after mouth taping. However, another study of 36 people with asthma showed no signs of change in their condition after mouth taping. What’s more, a study in 2022 revealed that 10 participants struggled with a phenomenon called mouth puffing, where they continued to try mouth breathing even after their mouths had been taped shut.  

Despite some people using mouth tape for snoring and sleep apnea, it is ill-advised to do so. Instead, there are many safer methods to use to stop snoring, such as: 

  • Using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), an Inspire device, or an oral appliance if you have sleep apnea 
  • Sleeping on your side instead of your back 
  • Taking decongestants to help relieve congestion 
  • Using nasal strips to improve airflow 

If you are having trouble sleeping, you can receive treatment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. 

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Fact Friday: Why Do We Snore?

Posted on by

ThinkstockPhotos-502743167What do half of all Americans do, but very few admit to, partly because they are unaware that they are doing it? The answer is snore.

Snoring occurs when the flow of air is partially obstructed in some way while we sleep. As air flows past relaxed tissue in the throat, the resulting vibrating sound is snoring. Snoring can take place for a variety of reasons, including:

• The anatomy of your mouth – Having an elongated soft palate or uvula can narrow the opening from the nose to the throat

• Being overweight – Those who are overweight have extra, bulky throat tissue that may narrow the airways

• Obstructed nasal airways – Allergies, a nasal infection or a deviated septum can all contribute to snoring

• Alcohol consumption – Drinking alcohol before bed can relax muscles in the tongue and throat can obstruct the airways

• Sleep apnea – This is a serious condition when your throat tissues partially or completely block your airway, preventing your from breathing

Unless you have an upset spouse inform you that you are snoring, you may be unaware that you have a problem. Look out for the following symptoms if you suspect you are snoring:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sore throat
• Restless sleep
• Chest pain at night
• High blood pressure

To determine the cause of your snoring, your doctor will review your signs and symptoms, review your medical history, and perform an examination. Your doctor may request an x-ray or other imaging tests to check the structure of your airway. To determine is sleep apnea is the reason for your snoring, a sleep study to monitor brain waves, breathing and heart rate, and blood oxygen levels may also be ordered.

Lifestyle changes including losing weight, avoiding consuming alcohol before bed and changing your sleep position by either raising your head or sleeping on your side can reduce the liklihood of snoring. Other aids, such as nasal strips, form fitting mouth pieces, and short term decongestants for allergies or infections can also be helpful.

If these efforts prove unsuccessful, there are a variety of surgical and non-surgical interventions that your doctor could recommend. One of the most common therapies is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which involves wearing a pressurized mask that pumps air through your airways while you sleep.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.