The Power of Nasal Breathing for Children: How Professionals Can Help

My intake form for every client has the question “Does your child sleep with his/her mouth open?”. If the answer is yes, I immediately refer out.

As parents, we often pay close attention to our child's health and well-being. One crucial aspect that can sometimes go unnoticed is the way they breathe. Nasal breathing versus mouth breathing can have a profound impact on a child's overall health, sleep, and development. In this post, we'll delve into the significance of nasal breathing and how doctors and professionals can and should assist in addressing this issue.

Nasal Breathing vs. Mouth Breathing: Why It Matters
Nasal Breathing:
1. Efficient Oxygenation: Nasal passages are designed to filter, humidify, and warm the air, ensuring that it reaches the lungs in the best possible condition.
2. Optimal Oxygen Exchange: Nasal breathing promotes better oxygen exchange in the bloodstream, contributing to improved cognitive function and physical development.
3. Protects Against Infections: The nose acts as a natural filter, trapping dust and pathogens, reducing the risk of respiratory infections.

Mouth Breathing:
1. Reduced Oxygen Intake: Breathing through the mouth can lead to lower oxygen levels in the blood, potentially causing fatigue and reduced concentration.
2. Dry Mouth and Throat: Mouth breathing can result in dry mouth and throat, leading to bad breath and an increased risk of dental issues.
3. Interrupted Sleep: Mouth breathing is often associated with sleep disruptions, including snoring and sleep apnea, which can affect a child's rest and overall development.

Seeking Professional Help
If you suspect your child is a mouth breather, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. Here's how these experts can assist:

1. Diagnosis: Professionals can evaluate your child's breathing habits and determine whether they are mouth breathers. They may also identify any underlying issues contributing to mouth breathing, such as allergies or anatomical concerns.

2. Treatment Plan: Once the cause is identified, professionals can develop a customized treatment plan. This may include strategies to encourage nasal breathing, like breathing exercises and allergy management.

3. Monitoring and Support: Professionals can monitor your child's progress and provide ongoing support. They may also collaborate with other specialists if needed, such as allergists or orthodontists, to address related issues.

4. Educational Guidance: Professionals can educate parents on the importance of nasal breathing and how to encourage the habit in children. This may include lifestyle changes and techniques to promote nasal breathing during sleep.

But who should I contact?
Your pediatrician. All medical questions should start with your pediatrician. However, pediatricians are NOT specialists, they are general practitioners, and they may not have an in depth knowledge of this issue. They should refer out to a specialist, but if they don’t, this list can help.

1. Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist): These doctors specialize in the ear, nose, and throat and can diagnose and treat various conditions related to nasal and airway health. This is always the FIRST place that I send clients who report that their child is breathing through their mouth or sleeping with their mouths open if their pediatrician has not offered support.

2. Speech-Language Pathologist: This is always my second line of defense if an ENT isn’t helpful (or definitely a first choice option as well!). They can assist with exercises and therapies to improve tongue posture and overall oral muscle function, which can impact breathing habits, and they can check for any ties that may be interfering with ideal oral function.

3. Myofunctional Therapist: It’s definitely possible, and unfortunately way more common than it should be, that an ENT or SLP tell you that everything looks fine. I can’t count how many times I’ve had clients say “Oh we’ve been checked, he’s just a mouth breather but he’s healthy”. Do NOT take this as an answer. Mouth breathing is never normal. If you get this answer, seek out the support of a Myofunctional Therapist. These therapists focus on the treatment of orofacial muscle dysfunction, which can be related to mouth breathing.

4. Airway dentist or orthodontist: Like Myo therapists, these dentists are trained in airway issues and are a great place to seek support for any open mouth breathing.

What next?

Those 4 professionals are a great place to start as they can help you figure out the underlying issue to any mouth breathing. Once you’ve determined your treatment plan, it may also incorporate any of the following professionals. A lot of these may actually be professionals you already work with if you have some of these issues!

1. Allergist/Immunologist: Allergists can help identify and manage allergies that may contribute to nasal congestion and mouth breathing.
2. Respiratory Therapist: In cases where mouth breathing is associated with respiratory issues like asthma, a respiratory therapist can help manage the condition.
3. Physical Therapist: For children with posture or muscle-related issues affecting breathing, a physical therapist can provide guidance and exercises.
4. Chiropractor: In some cases, chiropractic care may be considered to address spinal and posture issues affecting breathing.

The choice of professional will depend on the specific circumstances of the child and the underlying causes of their mouth breathing. It's often helpful to consult with multiple specialists to create a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan.

The way a child breathes is a fundamental aspect of their health and development. Nasal breathing offers numerous advantages, and professionals are well-equipped to diagnose and address mouth breathing issues. If you suspect your child is a mouth breather, don't hesitate to seek the support of healthcare professionals to help your child breathe easier, sleep better, and thrive. And don’t take no for an answer. Keep pushing until you find someone who truly hears you.