Nasal Strips
Nasal strips, also known as external nasal dilators, are non-pharmaceutical adhesive strips applied to the bridge of the nose. Their primary purpose is to mechanically open the nasal passages to improve airflow. [6] They are commonly used to seek temporary relief from nasal congestion, reduce snoring that originates from nasal obstruction, and by some athletes in the belief that they enhance performance. [22][9]
Nasal strips function through a simple mechanical process. They contain flexible, spring-like bands that, when applied across the nose, gently pull the outer walls of the nostrils outward. [22] This action specifically targets and widens the nasal valve, which is the narrowest part of the nasal airway and a primary source of respiratory airflow resistance. [10] During inhalation, negative pressure can cause the nasal valve to collapse inward; nasal strips counteract this by mechanically splinting the airway open. [1][20]
Scientific measurements using techniques like acoustic rhinometry confirm that nasal strips significantly increase the cross-sectional area of the nasal passages. [9][2]Studies have reported an increase in the mean nasal cross-sectional area by 17% to 37%. [2] This physical widening leads to a measurable decrease in nasal airflow resistance. [14][9]
The evidence for their effectiveness varies by application:
- Snoring and Sleep Quality: The impact is mixed and often subjective. For habitual snorers without sleep apnea, one study found that bed partners reported a statistically significant decrease in snoring. [12] However, two double-blind, randomized controlled trials found that nasal strips provided no significant improvement in subjective sleep quality compared to a placebo strip, suggesting a strong placebo effect may be involved. [23][5][16]
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Nasal strips are not considered an effective treatment for OSA. A 2016 systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that nasal dilators do not lead to significant improvements in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) or lowest oxygen saturation. [26][7]In fact, their minimal effect has led to their use as a placebo in some clinical trials for other OSA treatments. [4][18]
- Athletic Performance: Despite their use by some athletes, scientific evidence does not support the claim that nasal strips enhance athletic performance in healthy individuals. A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 studies found no statistically significant improvement in key metrics like maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max), heart rate, or rate of perceived exertion (RPE) during exercise. [13][11][8]
A typical application is for an individual who experiences snoring that is caused by nasal congestion from a cold or allergies. [9] The person would apply the strip across the bridge of their nose before going to sleep. The strip's mechanical action aims to widen the nasal passages, reduce airflow resistance, and thereby lessen the tissue vibration that causes the sound of snoring. [22]
A common and significant pitfall is using the strip as a primary solution for loud, persistent snoring without consulting a physician. This type of snoring can be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a serious medical condition for which nasal strips are not an effective treatment. [26][3]Relying on strips in this scenario can create a false sense of security and delay proper diagnosis and treatment.
Pros
Reduces Nasal-Based Snoring: For individuals whose snoring originates from nasal obstruction, strips may offer a statistically significant, subjectively reported reduction in snoring. [12]
Non-Pharmaceutical: They offer a drug-free method for temporarily improving nasal airflow. [6]
Adjunct to CPAP: For diagnosed OSA patients using a CPAP machine, nasal strips may be a useful adjunct therapy to improve comfort by enhancing nasal airflow. [17]
Cons
Symptomatic Relief Only: Nasal strips provide only temporary relief and do not treat the underlying root cause of nasal obstruction, such as a deviated septum, allergies, or sinus infections. [9]
Are nasal strips safe for long-term use?
Nasal strips are generally considered safe and non-invasive. [17] One clinical trial assessing them over seven consecutive nights found good dermal tolerability, although it excluded individuals with pre-existing skin sensitivities. [25] The most common side effect is skin irritation from the adhesive. [17]
Do nasal strips cure sleep apnea?
No. This is a critical and potentially dangerous misconception. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is caused by the collapse of soft tissues in the back of the throat, a mechanism that nasal strips do not address. [6] Multiple systematic reviews have confirmed that nasal strips do not significantly improve the key metrics of OSA severity, such as the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). [15][26]
Do nasal strips enhance athletic performance?
What is the difference between external nasal strips and internal nasal dilators?
External nasal strips are adhesive bands that pull the nostrils open from the outside. [6] Internal nasal dilators are devices inserted into the nostrils to hold them open from within. Comparative studies suggest internal dilators may be more effective. A 2019 clinical study found that while both devices reduced snoring, an internal dilator was effective for more participants and led to a greater perceived improvement in sleep quality. [24] Other research has shown internal dilators can produce a significantly greater increase in objective airflow measurements compared to external strips. [21]
Sources
