Nasal strips are flexible, adhesive, non-prescription devices worn across the bridge of the nose. They are applied externally before sleep and are often marketed as a simple solution for better breathing and reduced snoring.
What Causes Snoring
Snoring is the sound produced by the vibration of soft tissues in the airway when air movement is partially obstructed during sleep. When the muscles in the throat and mouth relax, the airway narrows, causing the tissues to flutter as air passes through the reduced space. This vibration often involves the soft palate, the uvula, and sometimes the tongue.
Nasal congestion or structural issues, such as a deviated septum, enlarged tonsils, or allergies, can also contribute by forcing a person to breathe through their mouth. When airflow through the nose is compromised, the mouth-breathing that results is much more likely to generate the disruptive sound of snoring.
How Nasal Strips Physically Work
Nasal strips are a type of external nasal dilator designed to mechanically widen the narrowest part of the nasal passage. The strips contain embedded plastic or spring-like material that attempts to pull outward on the sides of the nose. When the adhesive strip is applied across the bridge of the nose, the spring tension attempts to lift and open the walls of the nasal valve area.
This physical action is intended to reduce the resistance to airflow through the nose. By widening the nasal passages, the strips create more space for air to travel. The goal is to decrease air turbulence, which should make nasal breathing easier and reduce the likelihood of a person switching to mouth-breathing.
Who Nasal Strips Help and Who They Do Not
Nasal strips are most effective for individuals whose snoring originates from a restricted nasal airway. This includes snoring caused by temporary nasal congestion due to a cold or allergies, or minor nasal structure issues. Studies show that for snorers whose issue is primarily nasal stuffiness, the strips can decrease nasal airway resistance and improve sleep quality.
The strips offer little benefit, however, if the sound is generated deeper in the throat. Snoring caused by the vibration of the soft palate, tongue base, or poor muscle tone is not addressed by opening the nasal passages. Scientific evidence is mixed, with some studies showing reduced snoring intensity, while others found no objective change in frequency or sleep quality.
When Snoring Requires Medical Attention
Over-the-counter solutions like nasal strips are not suitable for all types of snoring and do not treat underlying medical conditions. Snoring that is loud, persistent, and accompanied by specific symptoms may indicate a more serious disorder, such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). OSA is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night due to the airway collapsing.
Warning signs that necessitate a consultation with a physician or sleep specialist include:
- Gasping, choking, or snorting sounds during sleep.
- Excessive daytime fatigue.
- Morning headaches.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- High blood pressure.
If nasal strips fail to resolve the issue, seeking a professional evaluation can lead to a proper diagnosis and management plan.