The distinction between nasal and mouth breathing extends beyond comfort—it carries measurable physiological consequences. Research from the Karolinska Institute identifies three critical advantages of nasal breathing: first, the continuous production of nitric oxide in the paranasal sinuses enhances oxygen transfer efficiency across the alveolar-capillary membrane; second, this sinus-derived nitric oxide selectively dilates lung blood vessels in well-ventilated regions, optimising blood flow distribution; and third, the cumulative effect—even a modest 10% improvement—becomes clinically significant during respiratory challenges such as chronic lung disease, high-altitude exposure, or intense physical exertion. For healthy individuals, nasal breathing represents an easily accessible physiological optimisation. For patients with compromised respiratory function, the mechanism offers insight into why nasal breathing may provide measurable benefit. Clinicians and patients alike should recognise nasal breathing as a foundational component of respiratory physiology. Read the full article on GMJ Newsroom.
Was this article helpful?
