What are the Symptoms of Dysfunctional Breathing / Hyperventilation?
 
A drying out and irritation of the airways because of the increased volume of air breathed 'in'
Increased mucus production as a result of increased allergies and irritants and blocked nose due to venous congestion, inflammation and swelling
Breathlessness
Chronic throat tickle
Cough
Tightness in the upper chest
Sighing often
Excessive yawning / sneezing
Excess loss of CO2 which effects the body's ability to use O2 - Bohr Effect
CO2 through its conversion to bicarbonates is the most important regulator of our acid / alkali balance
A lowering of CO2 results in a shift of the body's Ph towards alkaline and an alkaline system is more susceptible to viruses and allergies as it compromises the immune system, disturbs metabolism and energy production
Smooth muscle spasm due to the loss of the body's own smooth muscle dilator. Smooth muscle is found in the Respiratory System, Cardio-vascular System. Gastro-intestinal Tract - can lead to poor digestion and Urinary Tract
Increased excitability of the nervous system, making it extremely sensitive to outside stimuli. This leads to irritability, sleep disturbances, stress problems, unfounded anxiety and to being easily fatigued.
Poor circulation, dizziness, unsteadiness, headaches and palpitations
Tingling and coldness of fingers, face and feet
Impairment of concentration and memory
Diffuse or localised myalgia (muscle pain)
Oral dryness, belching, bloating, flatulence
Variable anxiety, tension and apprehension
 
Effects of Chronic Mouth Breathing on Oral Health
 Mouth breathing may contribute to:
 
 Forward head posture which can lead to neck muscle pain, stiffness and fatigue
 Headache
 V-shaped upper jaw and high palate
Malocclusion - anterior bite
TMJ dysfunction - complain of pain where the lower jaw hinges to the skull, may have trouble chewing, may have earache
Under developed nasal passages and / or underdeveloped jaw and cheekbones
Deviated nasal septum
Gummy smile
Gum disease
Dental decay
Dry mouth and throat
Bad breath
Increased allergen / airborne infection entry to lungs
Chronic swelling of the tonsils
Enlarged adenoids, polyps
Noisy breathing / noisy eating
Excessive snoring at night
Orthodontic treatment
Greater potential for relapse of orthodontic correction
Increased mucus production
Hypocapnia - a low level of CO2
Reduced lip tone
Reduced tongue tone
Diaphragmatic spasm
Shallow upper chest breathing
Poor posture
Reduced strength in core muscles