The Truth about Mouth Taping: A Sleep Surgeon Review

Summary

In this insightful discussion, NHS consultant Vic V explores the concept of mouth taping, a trend gaining popularity among athletes. He explains that while mouth taping encourages nasal breathing and increases carbon dioxide levels, it may pose risks, particularly for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, as it can obstruct airflow. Vic recommends alternatives like chin straps for those needing to maintain an open airway. Emphasizing caution, he highlights that mouth taping should only be considered after thorough medical evaluation, ensuring safety and effectiveness in improving breathing during sleep.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mouth taping encourages nasal breathing, which increases carbon dioxide levels in the body.
• 😀 The process of mouth taping can open up nasal airways due to physiological responses, such as increased acidity in the body.
• 😀 Increased carbon dioxide from mouth taping does not directly improve oxygen levels; rather, it helps with ventilation.
• 😀 Mouth taping can be beneficial for individuals who have corrected nasal obstructions and need to retrain their breathing habits.
• 😀 It is not recommended for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, as it can worsen breathing issues during sleep.
• 😀 Chin straps are suggested as a safer alternative to mouth taping, allowing for mouth breathing if necessary while keeping the jaw forward.
• 😀 Individuals with structural issues in the nose (like a twisted septum or polyps) should avoid mouth taping, as it won't resolve these problems.
• 😀 People with asthma may benefit from mouth taping if it helps them breathe more easily, but only if they do not have other complications.
• 😀 Many individuals may be unaware they have obstructive sleep apnea, highlighting the need for proper diagnosis and testing.
• 😀 It's essential to consult healthcare professionals before starting mouth taping or similar practices, as improper use can lead to health risks.

Q & A

What is mouth taping and why is it becoming popular?

Mouth taping involves placing tape over the mouth while sleeping to encourage nasal breathing, which some believe can help improve sleep quality and respiratory health. Its popularity has surged due to endorsements from athletes and celebrities.

How does mouth taping affect breathing and carbon dioxide levels?

Mouth taping forces individuals to breathe through their nose, which can reduce ventilation and lead to an increase in carbon dioxide levels in the body, making it slightly more acidic and triggering physiological responses that open up the airways.

What physiological response occurs when carbon dioxide levels increase?

When carbon dioxide levels increase, the body reacts by releasing adrenaline, which can lead to dilation of the airways in the lungs and the nasal passages, allowing more air to enter.

Why does Vic V caution against mouth taping?

Vic V warns against mouth taping, especially for individuals with nasal blockages, structural issues, or obstructive sleep apnea, as it can exacerbate breathing problems and pose health risks.

What issues can a blocked nose cause when mouth taping?

If the nose is blocked due to structural issues, such as a twisted septum or nasal polyps, mouth taping may lead to ineffective breathing attempts through a narrowed airway, creating potential health risks.

In what scenario might mouth taping be beneficial?

Mouth taping may be helpful for individuals who have had their nasal passage issues corrected and can breathe through their nose but have developed a habit of mouth breathing due to long-term obstruction.

What alternative does Vic suggest instead of mouth taping for people with obstructive sleep apnea?

Vic recommends using a chin strap that keeps the mouth closed while allowing for nasal breathing. This helps reposition the jaw and tongue, promoting better airflow without completely obstructing breathing.

What does Vic suggest for assessing obstructive sleep apnea?

Vic suggests conducting a proper sleep study, rather than a pulse oximetry test, to accurately diagnose obstructive sleep apnea and determine any drops in oxygen levels during sleep.

How does Vic describe the breathing patterns of someone with obstructive sleep apnea?

Individuals with obstructive sleep apnea may experience significant dips in oxygen levels during the night and often exhibit gasping or panting behaviors as their body tries to intake more air to compensate for low oxygen.

What is the potential long-term benefit of using mouth tape for those who can breathe through their nose?

For those able to breathe through their nose, using mouth tape for four to six weeks can help retrain their habit to prefer nasal breathing, potentially leading to improved sleep and reduced reliance on the tape.