What should you know about nasal dilators for snoring?

External strips gently pull the sides of the nose outward, while internal devices support the nasal walls from inside. This can improve airflow through the nose, especially during sleep. Relief is less likely when snoring comes mainly from throat tissues, alcohol or sedating medicines, or obstructive sleep apnoea. Nasal blockage may be linked with Allergic Rhinitis or Chronic Sinusitis. Snoring itself does not establish a diagnosis.

Choose a product designed for sleep and follow its fitting instructions. Keep the skin or device clean, stop if you develop soreness, bleeding or a rash, and do not force an internal dilator into a painful or injured nose. Side sleeping, treating congestion, and avoiding alcohol near bedtime may also help. If weight is contributing to airway narrowing, discuss a suitable Weight Management Programme with a clinician.

Arrange a medical review if snoring is loud and persistent, or if someone notices pauses in breathing, choking, gasping, restless sleep or marked daytime sleepiness. These features can occur with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, which needs assessment rather than a nasal device alone. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, chest pain or confusion.

Could nasal blockage be contributing to my snoring? Do my sleep symptoms suggest Obstructive Sleep Apnoea? Which type of dilator is suitable if I have allergies, sinus symptoms or a sensitive nose?