Do you breathe through your mouth? If yes, be aware it may be affecting your sleep.

A recent new study has discovered that breathing through your mouth has more adverse effects than breathing through your nose.

The study involving 2,000 adults found that 13% of them breathe through their mouths while sleeping, whereas only 18% breathe through their nose.

The study was conducted by Olbas, along with veteran general practitioner Dr Roger Henderson.

“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,” Dr Henderson said.

The GP added that the habit 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,” he said.

The study also found that one in three, 31% of people, admit they experience nasal congestion often. In contrast, only 15% of those who breathe through their noses feel clogged regularly.

It also emerged that due to regular stuffy noses, 38% have trouble sleeping at night.

The research also found, that of those who experience regular nasal congestion, 64% are getting blocked noses. While one in three experience runny noses, and 31% have sinus pressure and pain. Whereas, another 31% 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% stay awake at night and 30% find it difficult to nod off.

Furthermore, this has led to tiredness for 28% of the people.

Another research, conducted via OnePoll, also found that those who breathe through their mouths have worse sleep compared to those who do not.