The Importance of Proper Nose Breathing

Breathing properly through your nose is crucial. By doing so, you can ensure the air stays in your nose for a longer period of time and in turn, increase the amount of oxygen that makes its way into your bloodstream.

Also, your nasal passages are specifically intended to warm the air you inhale, significantly more than your mouth and throat. Believe it or not, your breath's temperature can go up more than 40-degree Fahrenheit as it travels from your nose to your lungs. This is particularly vital in cold outdoor temperatures.

The Drawbacks of Mouth Breathing

Now that you understand the benefits of breathing through your nose, it's time to discuss the consequences of mouth breathing. First and foremost, studies have shown that breathing through the mouth can significantly increase your chances of snoring and sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea.

Due to the fact that it changes the population of bacteria in your mouth, mouth breathing can also result in bad breath. It may also dry out your teeth, gums, and tongue, leading to complications such as cavities and gum issues. Dehydration is another disadvantage of mouth breathing, especially during sleep.

If you lead an active lifestyle and engage in sports, you may find that breathing through your mouth can inhibit your performance. This is because every time you inhale and exhale through your mouth, there's bound to be less oxygen in your lungs.

Additionally, studies have found a correlation between asthma and mouth breathing. They've also discovered that breathing through the mouth can worsen ADHD and raise a child's risk for abnormal posture, facial structure, and respiratory function.

Nose Breathing Can Keep You Healthy

There are two primary reasons you may breathe through your mouth. It may be a habit and something you've always done or you may have a nasal obstruction that requires treatment. Consult your doctor to determine what you can do to breathe through your nose, rather than solely your mouth.

Depending on your unique situation, a doctor may recommend a number of strategies to stop mouth breathing. These may include getting rid of blockage in your nose, reducing stress, working out, and undergoing myofascial therapy. While surgery may be an option, it's usually only recommended if conservative measures deem to be ineffective.


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