Spring Allergies and Mouth Breathing: What You Should Know

Spring brings warmer weather, blooming trees, and more time outdoors—but for many children and adults, it also means the return of seasonal allergies. Sneezing, congestion, and runny noses are common this time of year, but one side effect that often goes unnoticed is mouth breathing.

When nasal passages become congested due to allergies, the body naturally switches to breathing through the mouth. While this may seem harmless in the moment, chronic mouth breathing can impact oral development, sleep quality, and overall health if it becomes a long-term habit.

When the nose is blocked frequently, the mouth becomes the default airway. Over time, this can contribute to changes in oral muscle patterns and resting posture.

The Hidden Signs of Mouth Breathing

Many people assume mouth breathing is obvious, but the signs can actually be subtle. Here are some clues to watch for:

• Dry or cracked lips

• Frequent bad breath

• Dark circles under the eyes (“allergic shiners”)

• Open-mouth posture while resting or watching TV

• Snoring or restless sleep

• Difficulty focusing or daytime fatigue

• Frequent waking during the night

These symptoms are often attributed to allergies alone, but they can also indicate that the body has shifted into a mouth-breathing pattern.

Why it Matters for Oral Function

When mouth breathing becomes habitual, it can affect the way the muscles of the face and mouth function. Over time, this may contribute to:

• Improper tongue resting posture

• Tongue thrust swallowing patterns

• Dental crowding or orthodontic relapse

• Poor sleep quality

Orofacial myofunctional therapy focuses on retraining the muscles of the face, tongue, and mouth to support healthy breathing, swallowing, and oral posture.

Supporting Healthy Breathing During Allergy Season

If allergies are affecting breathing, a few strategies can help support nasal airflow:

• Work with your physician or allergist to manage seasonal allergies

• Drink plenty of water

• Use saline rinses or humidifiers when recommended by a healthcare provider

• Pay attention to resting mouth posture—lips closed, tongue resting on the palate, and breathing through the nose when possible

When to Seek an Evaluation

If mouth breathing persists beyond allergy symptoms or you notice several of the signs above, it may be helpful to schedule an evaluation. Identifying underlying oral muscle patterns early can help support healthy breathing, sleep, and oral development.

At Midwest Myofunctional Specialists, we evaluate how the muscles of the face and mouth work together to support optimal breathing and function.

If you have questions about mouth breathing, tongue posture, or myofunctional therapy, we’re here to help!