Nasal Strips
Snoring is one of the most common difficulties (and annoyances) of sleeping. But snoring is more than an annoyance, it’s a sign of narrowed or blocked nostrils or airways.
Nasal strips can help to open your nasal passages. This can improve sleep quality, particularly if you struggle with snoring related to nasal breathing.
See how your sleep quality stacks up.
Start here to get a baseline on how well you sleep and where you can improve.
Healthy Breathing and Sleep
When you sleep at night, the position of your mouth – and your head – can lead to blocked airways, causing snoring and sleep apnea.
How Nasal Strips Can Improve Sleep
Nasal strips adhere to your nose. Springs embedded in them hold your nostrils open, gently pulling them outward and improving airflow.
Preparing for a Conversation with a Sleep Doctor
Meeting with a sleep doctor can be an ideal way to understand and address problems you’re experiencing with sleep. It’s important to go to that appointment prepared. Learn what to know and do to get the most out of this valuable consultation.
Learn MoreHow to Choose a Nasal Strip
- Placement Preference: Choose based on comfort between external nose strips and internal nasal devices.
- Strength Options: External strips are available in medium and high strength for varying degrees of nasal support.
- Color Choices: Select from clear or neutral beige options to match your preference.
- Single Use: Note that strips are designed for one-time use only.
Different Types of Nasal Strips
- External Nasal Strips vs. Internal Nasal Dilators: External strips that adhere to the outside of the nose and internal dilators that fit inside the nostrils.
- Spring Strength: Consider the strength of the springs for external strips.
Who Might Benefit from Nasal Strips
- People with Congestion: Colds, allergies, deviated septum – these can all obstruct nasal passages. Strips and dilators can gently open them, promoting easier breathing.
- Snoring Sufferers: Narrowed airways contribute to snoring. These devices can widen the passages, potentially reducing the noise and improving sleep quality for both you and your partner.
- Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts: Increased airflow can enhance oxygen intake and improve athletic performance.
Who Would Not Benefit from Nasal Strips
- Individuals with severe allergic rhinitis or nasal congestion.
- People with structural nasal issues.
- Those with moderate to severe sleep apnea.
- Individuals with skin sensitivities.
- Those with chronic respiratory conditions.
- Individuals with severe sinusitis.
Relevant Research - Nasal Strips
Nasal strips have been studied for their effectiveness in improving sleep quality, especially for those with nasal congestion or snoring. An exploratory study on (Allergy, asthma, and clinical immunology) showed that nasal strips reduced nasal congestion and improved sleep quality. Another study (Advances in therapy) found that nasal dilator strips decreased nasal resistance and sleep-disordered breathing in individuals with chronic nasal congestion. Additionally, research published in American Journal of Rhinology indicated their positive impact on respiratory disturbances in sleep apnea and snoring patients. However, the effectiveness of nasal strips isn't consistent across all studies. For example, two randomized controlled trials (Advances in therapy) assessing Breathe Right Nasal Strips found mixed results compared to placebo, suggesting variability in their efficacy. While beneficial for certain conditions, the overall impact of nasal strips on sleep quality may differ among individuals.