Nasal strips are available without a prescription and easy to use, but ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists say they unfortunately aren’t a sure-fire cure for snoring.
The strips carry virtually no risks beyond occasional skin irritation where the adhesive is applied, according to Germany’s Professional Association of Ear, Nose and Throat Doctors.
People prone to snoring therefore need not hesitate to try them.
However, the experts point out that the strips only help in a minority of cases – specifically when snoring is caused by a narrowing in the nasal passage, such as from a cold, allergies or a slightly deviated septum.
ALSO READ: Many of us have a deviated septum in our nose
A 2016 meta-analysis reviewing multiple studies concluded that the evidence on nasal strips remains mixed, with some people responding to the treatment while others do not.
Gently lifting the sides of the nose with the adhesive strip can provide some relief in cases of clogged and narrow nasal passages, even though the effect has not yet been conclusively proven scientifically.
It is equally unproven, incidentally, that nasal strips provide more oxygen during sports.
Your doctor will likely tell you that the cause of snoring often lies in the throat – and in those cases, a strip on the nose is of no use.
Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) advises people who snore regularly and feel tired during the day to see a doctor, as this may indicate sleep apnoea – a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep.
Without treatment, sleep apnoea can lead to additional health complications, including high blood pressure and increased risk of stroke.
ALSO READ: Sleep apnoea: When you cease to breathe while asleep
The following tips can also help reduce or even eliminate snoring:
- Sleep on your side if possible.
To avoid rolling onto your back, place a small pillow or a piece of foam behind you.
Alternatively, a raised position using thick pillows or a foam wedge can also help.
- Ensure fresh air in the room, but avoid draughts.
The ideal bedroom temperature is between 14°C and 18°C.
- Avoid eating too late, too heavily or too much protein in the evening, and ideally, avoid alcohol for at least three hours before going to bed.
- Avoid sedatives and sleeping pills where possible.
- Lose excess weight – every kilogramme lost makes a difference. – dpa
ALSO READ: Mouth taping to prevent snoring is a potentially risky practice
