No, there isn’t reputable evidence that nasal strips help with sleep apnea.
Are you struggling to get a good night’s sleep because of breathing issues? Have you considered using nasal strips as a potential solution?
Sleep apnea is serious and could potentially lead to death if left untreated. Common symptoms include snoring, gasping for breath, and interrupted sleep leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue.
Unfortunately, not all treatments work for everyone, which can lead people to look for alternatives.
Nasal strips are primarily used by athletes to improve their performance during exercise, but some studies suggest they could also be beneficial when treating sleep apnea symptoms.
We will explore the evidence for whether or not nasal strips can help with sleep apnea, including how they work and if they are an effective treatment option.
Can nasal strips help with sleep apnea?
Nasal strips are often used to reduce snoring, but they are not an effective treatment for sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition that causes the muscles to relax during sleep and the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses, blocking the upper airway.
A recent study by Dr. Clete A. Kushida found that nasal strips did not improve OSA symptoms.
Nasal strips can help reduce snoring, but they do not increase REM sleep cycles, oxygen intake during sleep, or reduce other symptoms associated with OSA.
It is important to discuss any potential signs of sleep apnea with a primary care doctor or sleep specialist as delaying treatment can have negative impacts on health.
While nasal strips may be able to reduce some of the symptoms associated with OSA such as snoring, they do not cure or treat it directly.
Sleep apnea can be treated with lifestyle changes, CPAP therapy, mouth guards, or surgery.
How nasal strips work?
Nasal strips are adhesive bands placed above the flare of the nostril. They work to return to their flat design, lifting inflamed nostrils to allow more airflow.
This can be beneficial during times of allergies, colds, congestion and deviate septums.
The strips widen the nasal valve which is located inside the nose and decrease collapse and constriction of the nasal airway.
This allows for easier nose-breathing as it increases the amount of air that can pass through the nose.
The adhesive on nasal strips is designed to stick firmly but comfortably onto your skin without causing any irritation or discomfort.
It also helps keep them in place while you sleep or exercise so that you can get maximum benefit from them.
Nasal strips are a great way to help reduce snoring and improve breathing during times when your sinuses are congested or blocked due to allergies, colds or other respiratory issues.
They are also an effective way to help relieve pressure from a deviated septum or other structural issues.
Can CPAP users wear nasal strips?
Nasal strips can be a great addition to CPAP masks for those who suffer from sleep apnea. They can help you breathe more efficiently.
When using a CPAP mask, it is important to make sure that the position of the strip won’t cause any air leaks with your mask.
Different sizes and shapes of nasal strips may work better for different nose shapes and sizes, so it is important to experiment with different types until you find one that works best for you.
In addition to nasal strips, there are also nasal dilators available which can help reduce snoring and improve airflow during sleep.
These come in two varieties: external dilators which stick to the outside of the nose with adhesive, and internal dilators which push outward from the inside.
Studies have shown that both types of dilators can reduce snoring, but internal dilators tend to be more effective.
How can I minimize symptoms of OSA?
Lifestyle changes can be an effective way to minimize the symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).
Regular exercise and weight loss are two of the most important steps in improving OSA symptoms.
Avoiding alcohol before bedtime and quitting smoking can also help reduce symptoms.
Nasal decongestants or allergy medications may also be used to improve sinuses and breathing during sleep, as well as sleeping on your stomach or side.
Mouth guards are another option for treating OSA at home. These appliances are custom-fitted and designed to reposition the jaw while sleeping, keeping the airway open and normalizing breathing during sleep.
They are soft, plastic trays that fit comfortably in your mouth and provide relief from snoring and other OSA symptoms.
With proper use, these appliances can be an effective way to manage OSA without having to resort to more invasive treatments.
Conclusion
Nasal strips can help reduce snoring, but they are not an effective treatment for sleep apnea.
While nasal strips may be able to reduce some of the symptoms associated with OSA such as snoring, they do not cure or treat it directly.
It is important to discuss any potential signs of sleep apnea with a primary care doctor or sleep specialist as delaying treatment can have negative impacts on health.
