Risk of Suffocation When Using Mouth Tape with a Clogged Nose
Using mouth tape when your nose is clogged poses a significant risk of suffocation and should be avoided, as it can completely obstruct your airway and lead to potentially life-threatening situations. 1
Understanding the Risks
Mouth taping has gained popularity through social media as a purported remedy for mouth breathing and sleep-disordered breathing. However, when the nasal passages are obstructed, this practice can be dangerous:
- Complete airway obstruction can occur if both the mouth and nose are blocked, potentially leading to asphyxiation 2, 1
- Recent systematic review evidence shows potential serious risks of harm for individuals indiscriminately practicing mouth taping, especially those with nasal obstruction 1
- Most clinical studies on mouth taping specifically exclude individuals with nasal obstruction or pathology due to safety concerns 1
Nasal Obstruction Considerations
Nasal congestion or obstruction presents particular challenges:
- When the nose is clogged, the body naturally compensates by breathing through the mouth; taping the mouth removes this vital backup airway 3
- Nasal packing (which causes similar obstruction to congestion) is known to temporarily contribute to or worsen obstructive sleep apnea by blocking airflow 3
- Patients with nasal packing are specifically advised to sneeze with their mouth open to maintain an airway path 3
Alternative Approaches for Nasal Congestion
Instead of mouth taping with a congested nose, consider these safer alternatives:
- Address the underlying nasal congestion first with appropriate treatments (decongestants, saline sprays, etc.) 3
- If experiencing breathing difficulties at night, sleep with the head slightly elevated to improve nasal drainage 3
- For those with sleep-disordered breathing, consult with a healthcare provider about evidence-based interventions such as CPAP therapy 3
Warning Signs of Respiratory Distress
Know the warning signs that require immediate attention:
- Shortness of breath or labored breathing 3
- Feeling of suffocation or inability to get enough air 3
- Anxiety or panic related to breathing difficulties 3
- Blue discoloration of lips or skin (cyanosis) 3
Conclusion
The scientific evidence does not support mouth taping as a safe practice when nasal passages are obstructed. The 2025 systematic review specifically highlights "a potentially serious risk of harm for individuals indiscriminately practicing this trend" 1. Even in patients without nasal obstruction, a randomized controlled trial found no significant benefit of mouth taping for asthma control 4.
The risk of complete airway obstruction and potential asphyxiation far outweighs any theoretical benefits when nasal passages are congested. Always ensure at least one clear airway path is available for breathing.