Many people unknowingly sleep with their mouth open, often assuming it is harmless. Health experts, however, say this habit can sometimes indicate underlying medical problems that need attention.
Sleeping with the mouth open usually occurs when nasal passages are blocked. Common causes include severe colds, allergies, or enlarged tonsils.
Children are more likely to breathe through their mouths, especially if adenoids or tonsils partially obstruct their nose. The issue often improves as children grow older.
A crooked or bent nasal septum can also lead to nasal blockage, forcing people to keep their mouth open while sleeping. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the obstruction.
Experts warn that mouth breathing combined with snoring or difficulty breathing may signal sleep apnea, a serious condition requiring immediate medical evaluation. Untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of heart problems and poor overall health.
Sleeping with the mouth open can also affect oral health. It can dry out the mouth, causing bad breath, irritation, and poor oral hygiene. Disturbed sleep is another consequence, which may affect daytime alertness and overall well-being.
Health professionals advise consulting a specialist if mouth breathing persists. Even without obvious symptoms like dry throat, persistent cough, or breathing difficulty, early identification of nasal obstructions can prevent long-term complications and improve sleep quality.
Maintaining healthy nasal passages and addressing issues like allergies, tonsil enlargement, or a deviated septum can reduce the need to sleep with the mouth open. Experts emphasize that proper treatment improves both oral health and sleep, benefiting overall wellness.
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