The sleeping hack that doctors want everyone to stop trying
Sleep medicine experts weigh in on mouth taping
- Sleep medicine experts are advising against mouth taping for improved sleep and reduced snoring, citing a lack of scientific backing.
- Doctors warn that mouth taping carries potential risks, including worsening sleep disorders like sleep apnoea and the danger of suffocation.
- While nasal breathing is considered healthier than mouth breathing due to its natural filtering benefits and prevention of issues like dry mouth, taping the mouth shut is not a recommended solution.
- Existing studies on mouth taping's effectiveness are small and inconclusive, with no strong evidence to support its claims for better sleep.
- Experts recommend consulting a doctor for a sleep test to diagnose underlying causes of mouth breathing, suggesting safer alternatives such as prescription mouthpieces, CPAP machines, or lifestyle adjustments.