Mouth
taping has recently gained popularity as a method to encourage nose breathing
during sleep. It involves placing porous tape over the lips while sleeping, helping
to promote breathing through the nose instead of the mouth. It is claimed to
help with issues such as snoring and bad breath.
While mouth taping is not scientifically proved as a treatment,
there is some evidence of limited benefits. The US Sleep Foundation undertook a
small study of people with mild obstructive sleep apnoea who used a porous
patch over the mouth to encourage nasal breathing. Researchers found the group
experienced reduced snoring and fewer instances of interrupted breathing.
Some people also claim that mouth taping helps with fatigue,
concentration issues, bad breath, and excessive thirst at night, although most
of these claims have not been scientifically studied.
But mouth taping is not for everyone. There have been some
reported side effects of mouth taping, including irritation on or around the
lips, disrupted sleep due to irritation from the tape or difficulty breathing through
the nose (especially if you have nasal congestion).
Additionally, anyone who feels anxious about having their
mouth taped shut may find it unsettling.
As mouth taping is not considered a commonly accepted or
proven practice, speak to your doctor before trying it. If you suspect you
might have sleep apnoea or another sleep disorder, other treatments may be more
effective.
If you have difficulty breathing through your nose due to a
cold or sinus infection, allergies, nasal polyps or another reason, you should
avoid mouth taping.