What are Nasal Strips?

Nasal strips are simple devices that are employed to help minimize snoring as well as open nasal passages when a cold or flu is present. In both scenarios, the strips make it easier for the individual to breathe with at least some degree of comfort. As a result, it is easier to get a good night’s rest without disturbing others in the home.

The configuration of most types of nasal strips is fairly simple. Most types consist of a thin rectangular body that is just long enough to reach across the area of the nose just above the nostrils. This thin body is usually made of flexible material. The underside is coated with an adhesive that makes it easy for the nasal strip to be placed into position and hold that position for several hours.

A breathing device of this type is applied to the exterior of the nose. By positioning the strip across the nose above the nostrils, it is possible to press the adhesive backing to the skin. When the strip in place, the thin body gently but firmly pulls the nostrils open. This in turn makes it easier for air to pass through the nostrils.

There are two main applications of nasal strips. The first has to do in minimizing the incidence of snoring. Because the strips help to open the nostrils, they work as a simple nasal dilator. The greater flow of air in and out of the nose means less noise when attempting to breathe. From this perspective, using the strips for snoring relief not only helps the individual achieve a deeper and more recuperative sleep, but also minimizes the noise that is likely to keep others sleeping in the same room for getting the rest they need.

A second application of nasal strips is to aid in breathing when a cold or the flu is present. Because nasal congestion is one of the most common symptoms of a cold or flu, using a nose strip to open the nostrils a little wider will make breathing easier. The strips not only help make it easier to deal with the cold during waking hours, but also make it possible to get a good night’s rest, one of the essentials when recovering from a cold.

Disposable nasal strips are found in most pharmacies, as well as supermarkets and discount retail stores. The low price for the strips make them widely available to people in any economic bracket, and are usually cheaper than many of the other anti-snoring products on the market today.