NASAL VALVE DILATORS

There are basically 2 kinds of nasal valve dilators. The first kind is an adhesive strip that is placed over the bridge of the nose at bedtime. These strips cost ~ 80 cents each and cannot be reused. Common problems with using these strips include irritation of the skin and the strips coming off in the middle of the night.

The second type of nasal valve dilator is a springy piece of plastic that is wider at the ends. The ends are actually inserted into the nostrils. These dilators cost ~ $20 each and have to be replaced every 2 - 3 months. They can be rather uncomfortable and may irritate the inside lining of the nose.

Nasal valve dilators are probably only of value in ~ 5% of patients who snore or have OSA. These patients usually have small nostrils that collapse easily with sniffing.

Lifestyle changes
Body position
Nasal sprays
Nasal valve dilators
Dental appliances
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
Surgery