Do you struggle with headaches, sore throats, or general irritability? If so, did you know that mouth breathing during sleep can be the culprit? Mouth breathing can lead to a range of serious health problems, including chronic headaches and sleep difficulty. Read on to learn about the link between mouth breathing and headaches, and how to navigate this common health issue effectively.
What Are Mouth Breathing Headaches?
Mouth breathing headaches occur when breathing through the mouth during sleep causes the airways to become restricted. This is often due to nasal congestion, an anatomical abnormality, or poor respiratory muscle training. When the airways become obstructed, oxygen flow to the brain is affected, leading to an increased likelihood of experiencing headaches. It’s worth noting that mouth breathing can also contribute to chronic health issues such as asthma, snoring, sleep apnea, and wheezing.
As the mouth is generally kept closed during sleep, chronic mouth breathers can struggle to sort out why they have headaches. There are a variety of culprits to consider, but any headaches that occur in the morning are likely due to obstructive sleep apnea or mouth breathing-related headaches. Those with these symptoms can also experience other issues, such as a dry mouth or sore throat, especially upon waking up.
How Are Mouth Breathing Headaches Treated?
There are a number of effective treatments for mouth breathing headaches. Here are some of the most common:
Nasal Steroid Sprays.
One of the most commonly prescribed treatments for mouth breathing-related symptoms is using a nasal steroid spray to reduce airway inflammation. This can help keep the nasal passages open during sleep, reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms.
Mouth Tapes.
In some cases, wearing a simple adhesive tape across the lips and nostrils before bed can help keep the mouth closed and encourage breathing through the nose. It may sound odd, but many people have successfully overcome their mouth breathing-related issues thanks to this treatment.
Respiratory Muscle Training.
Improved breathing technique doesn’t only come from meditation or other calming exercises. There are also a number of techniques and exercises designed to strengthen the muscles within the respiratory system, which can also encourage nasal breathing during sleep.
Sleep Positioning Devices.
Poor sleep posture can lead to increased airway resistance, leading to more prevalent and severe symptoms related to mouth breathing. Devices such as back supports, pillows, or adjustable bed frames are often recommended as a way to ensure the head remains at an appropriately elevated angle while sleeping.
Conclusion
Mouth breathing can be a frequent issue for many individuals, but it often goes overlooked due to the elusive nature of its symptoms. Mouth breathing-related headaches can have a significant impact on one’s quality of life, and can lead to other chronic health issues. Luckily, there are a wide array of effective treatments that can help reduce or eliminate symptoms all together.
One of the biggest weapons in the fight against mouth breathing-related symptoms is knowledge. By understanding the causes and treatment options, those who experience mouth breathing headaches are in a better position to overcome them and achieve restorative sleep. With the right mindset and the right treatment, mouth breathing headaches can soon be a thing of the past.
