Nighttime Mouth Taping Trend Poses Serious Risks, Study Finds
A recent trend on social media promoting the practice of taping one’s mouth shut while sleeping to prevent mouth breathing may not only offer little benefit but could also pose serious risks of asphyxiation, according to a new study. Dr. Brian Rotenberg and his team from Western University in Canada reviewed 10 previously published studies to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this popular fad. Their findings, published in PLOS One, shed light on the potential dangers associated with nighttime mouth taping.
When nasal passages are blocked, individuals tend to switch from breathing through their nose to breathing through their mouth, a phenomenon known as mouth breathing. This has been linked to various sleep-disordered breathing conditions, including snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. In an attempt to address these issues, some people have turned to mouth taping as a solution, believing that it can help prevent mouth breathing during sleep.
The analysis conducted by Rotenberg and his colleagues included 10 studies involving 213 participants who were subjected to different methods of mouth taping. While a couple of studies hinted at a slight improvement in sleep apnea severity for individuals with mild obstructive sleep apnea, the majority of the research failed to demonstrate any significant benefits of mouth taping in treating sleep-disordered breathing or sleep apnea.
One of the most alarming findings was the potential risk of asphyxiation associated with sealing the mouth shut during sleep, especially for individuals with severe nasal airway restrictions. Conditions such as chronic rhinitis, deviated septum, and enlarged tonsils could lead to serious complications if one’s mouth is taped closed while sleeping.
The authors of the study caution against the widespread adoption of this practice, noting that mouth taping is not a scientifically proven method for treating sleep-disordered breathing. They emphasize the need for further research to better understand the risks and benefits of this controversial trend.
In conclusion, the study concludes that while mouth taping may be a popular social media trend, it is not necessarily safe or effective for everyone. Celebrity endorsements and online testimonials should not overshadow the importance of evidence-based research when it comes to addressing serious health conditions like sleep-disordered breathing.
For more information on this topic, you can access the full study published in PLOS One by visiting the provided link. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any new sleep therapies or treatments, especially those that involve potentially risky practices like mouth taping.
