Are Nasal Strips Really Effective?
Nasal strips are flexible, spring-like, self-adhesive strips that do not require a doctor's prescription. To apply a nasal strip, stick it along the bridge of your nose, just above your nostril flare right before you go to bed. Once you do, you'll find that it'll widen your nasal passage and make it easier for you to breathe through your nose.
You can think of nasal strips as breathing aids for while you sleep. Although there are various nasal strip brands on the market, the most popular one is called Breathe Right. If you're intrigued by nasal strips and wondering if they work, keep reading.
The Story Behind Breathe Right Nasal Strips
Nasal strips have been around since the late 1980s when a Minnesota man named Bruce Johnson was looking for a way to treat his evening nasal congestion. He created nasal strips to open up his nasal passages and enjoy a more blissful sleep.
After Johnson introduced nasal strips to a local medical equipment company known as CNS, CNS decided to sell them. Years later in 1993, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the product for nasal congestion. In 1995, they were also approved to provide relief from snoring.
While Breathe Right continues to dominate the nasal strips market, there are others out there by WoodyKnows and EBP Medical. Target, Walmart, and a few other retailers also sell their own generic versions.
Pros of Nasal Strips
Nasal strips have been proven to alleviate nasal congestion and relieve nasal snoring. Fortunately, they're affordable, a breeze to apply, and available in a number of varieties and sizes. Since nasal strips are free of medications, the only side effect you may face while using them is skin irritation resulting from the adhesive.
Cons of Nasal Strips
It's important to note that while nasal strips can be effective for nasal congestion and nasal-related snoring, you can't depend on them to improve a serious case of sleep apnea. What you can do, however, is incorporate them into your treatment plan as they can make it easier to use a CPAP machine.
In addition, nasal strips are not a solution for all breathing issues and are impractical for daytime use. Also, if you have oily skin, you may find them a challenge.
If you're unsure of whether or not nasal strips can benefit you, don't hesitate to consult your doctor.