A recent study has found that mouth taping, a trend popularized by celebrities, lacks strong evidence of effectiveness and may pose serious health risks, particularly for individuals with undiagnosed sleep apnea.

Led by Dr. Brian Rotenberg at Western University, the research reviewed eight studies involving nearly 200 participants, revealing mixed results regarding the safety and efficacy of mouth taping.

Ken O'Halloran from University College Cork pointed out that most studies on mouth taping were of poor quality and involved small sample sizes, limiting their reliability.

Experts in sleep health strongly advise against mouth taping, urging individuals to consult healthcare providers for sleep-related issues rather than relying on social media trends.

Proven treatments, such as CPAP machines, are recommended for managing obstructive sleep apnea, as mouth taping does not effectively alleviate snoring or sleep apnea symptoms.

None of the studies reviewed addressed daytime symptoms related to obstructive sleep apnea, such as fatigue and headaches, which are significant concerns for many patients.

While some enthusiasts claim mouth taping can improve airflow, reduce snoring, and enhance sleep quality, these benefits are largely anecdotal and not supported by scientific evidence.

The study emphasizes the dangers of following online health trends indiscriminately, highlighting the need for more robust research to understand any potential clinical benefits.

Dr. Rotenberg has noted an increase in patient inquiries about mouth taping, stressing the importance of scientifically informed advice.

Individuals struggling with nasal breathing should seek medical advice to identify underlying issues, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, which mouth taping cannot resolve.

Variations in mouth taping methods across studies may have contributed to inconsistent results, with some studies using full strips while others were less specific.

Experts warn that mouth taping could lead to severe health risks, including suffocation, making it crucial to approach such practices with caution.