Breathing through your mouth could mean you’re twice as likely to experience regular nasal congestion, according to research. A study of 2,000 adults found 13 percent typically breathe through their mouths – increasing to 18 percent when asleep.
But of these, nearly one in three (31 percent) admitted they experience nasal congestion often – compared to just 15 percent of those who breathe through their noses feeling bunged up regularly.
It also emerged that, as a result of these regular stuffy noses, 38 percent are being kept up at night.
The research was commissioned by Olbas, which has teamed up with Dr Roger Henderson, a GP of over 30 years, who said: “Breathing through your mouth can cause several health issues, compared to when you breathe more healthily through your nose.
“Mouth breathing can cause less oxygen to be delivered to the body, and one of the problems this can cause is disturbed sleep, and increased daytime fatigue and tiredness.
“It also causes the mouth to dry out, which in turn increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. There may also be an increased risk of upper airway infections, as well as inflammation of the tonsils and adenoids.
“Nasal obstruction is a common reason for mouth breathing, often caused by nasal allergies or enlarged adenoids.”
The research also found that, of those who experience regular nasal congestion, 64 percent are getting blocked noses.
And one in three are getting runny noses, while 31 percent are even having sinus pressure and pain. A further 31 percent have found breathing difficult as a result.
Nasal sprays, steam inhalation, and decongestants are the most popular remedies people are turning to as they attempt to relieve their congestion.
However, as a result of being regularly bunged up, 37 percent have been kept awake at night, and 30 percent have found it difficult to nod off. In addition, this has then caused tiredness throughout the day for 28 percent.
The research, conducted via OnePoll, also found those who are breathing through their mouths are having worse sleep, compared to those who do not.
Just 56 percent of mouth breathers claim their quality of sleep is good, compared to 68 percent of those who predominantly breathe through their nose.
Dr Roger Henderson added: “To help reduce mouth breathing and nasal congestion, use a saline spray or nasal decongestant, and sleep on your back with an extra pillow to prop up your head, and help promote nasal breathing.
“Try to keep your house as free of allergens as possible, and consciously practice breathing through your nose during the day, to help train yourself into a habit of nasal breathing.”
Claire Campbell, from Olbas, said: “It’s clear that breathing through your mouth is causing Brits more issues when it comes to nasal congestion.
“This, in turn, is having a detrimental impact on their day-to-day life, as they struggle with health conditions. This is why we developed our range with a mixture of plant oils, to help unblock stuffy and congested noses.”
