Mouth breathing

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Mouth breather)

Mouth breathing is the act of inhaling and exhaling through the mouth rather than the nose. It can be a symptom of various health conditions, or a habit developed due to certain lifestyle factors.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Mouth breathing can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Nasal congestion: This is often due to allergies or a cold, which can block the nasal passages and force a person to breathe through their mouth.
  • Deviated septum: This is a condition where the thin wall between the nasal passages is displaced to one side, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.
  • Sleep apnea: This is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts. It can cause a person to breathe through their mouth to get enough oxygen.
  • Habit: Some people breathe through their mouth out of habit, often due to stress or anxiety.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Common symptoms of mouth breathing include:

  • Dry mouth
  • Bad breath
  • Snoring
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Facial deformities in children

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for mouth breathing depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

  • Nasal decongestants: These can help clear the nasal passages and allow for easier breathing through the nose.
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be required to correct a deviated septum or other physical abnormalities.
  • Breathing exercises: These can help retrain the body to breathe through the nose instead of the mouth.
  • Lifestyle changes: This can include reducing stress and anxiety, which can contribute to mouth breathing.

See also[edit | edit source]

Mouth breathing Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD