MOUTH BREATHING
The nose is the primary respiratory pathway for humans, serving as the organ responsible for filtering and purifying air to prevent impurities from entering the respiratory system. Additionally, it helps to regulate the air temperature in relation to the body. In cases of illness, such as nasal congestion, the nasal passages may become obstructed, necessitating a switch to mouth breathing to avoid the risk of asphyxiation. However, mouth breathing is not a healthy practice in the long term, as it can negatively impact various bodily systems. The air inhaled through the mouth is not clean; it contains germs, bacteria, and infectious agents that are unsuitable for the body’s internal environment.
REASONS FOR MOUTH BREATHING DURING SLEEP
Many individuals struggle to breathe solely through their noses while sleeping, which often leads them to open their mouths to facilitate easier breathing. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, with one of the most common being the presence of adenoids in the nasal cavity. These adenoids may be present since birth without being initially noticed or treated. If they persist into adulthood, they can exacerbate the situation to the extent that nasal breathing becomes problematic, forcing the individual to resort to mouth breathing during sleep.
Another factor can be the relaxation of the jaw muscles, which can occur during sleep. This relaxation causes the lower jaw to drop, leaving the mouth open throughout the night. It is advisable to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist to investigate the underlying cause of mouth breathing during sleep, as conditions like enlarged adenoids can lead to breathing difficulties and, in some cases, choking.
TREATMENT FOR MOUTH BREATHING DURING SLEEP
If the cause of mouth breathing during sleep is identified as enlarged adenoids, the recommended course of action typically involves a straightforward surgical procedure. An ENT specialist can remove or cauterize the adenoids. This outpatient procedure usually lasts about thirty minutes, and the patient can go home approximately four hours afterward without the need for an overnight hospital stay. On the other hand, if the issue stems from relaxed jaw muscles, corrective surgery may be required, which involves a dental specialist. In some cases, this may necessitate an overnight hospital stay, particularly because the patient might find eating difficult in the first twenty-four hours post-surgery.