This is the second in a series of postings concerning products and services that some people misinterpret as being alternative treatments for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
BreatheRight Strips (www.breatheright.com)
This popular snoring aides makes no claim of treating sleep apnea, but our experience is that at times, some people mistake it as being just that. But here are the facts:
- BreatheRight strips are worn on the nose and help to open nasal passages, not the airway.
- BreatheRight claims only to reduce snoring, not OSA.
- The company’s website claims “85% of snorers find relief,” not sleep apnea patients.
- Most respiratory disturbances that occur during the night are caused by collapses of the airway, not by nasal passages.
This company’s apparent truth in advertising practices are commendable. It is the responsibility of the person buying a product to read its label and be sure they are purchasing something of value to their condition.
Luke Goodpaster
Director of Research
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July 3, 2008 at 3:50 pm
Larry Barsh, DMD
While the advertising statements are to be applauded, but the buyer should be aware that interruptions in the sound of snoring during sleep can be indicative of obstructive sleep apnea. Products that eliminate snoring should be used with care to ensure that one does not obscure a warning sign of sleep apnea.
Snorers should be aware of the other warning signs of sleep apnea including excessive daytime sleepiness, gasping or choking while sleeping, feeling unrefreshed in the morning, heartburn or sour taste in the mouth in the morning, sexual dysfunction and sweating and chest pain at night. Male snorers with a neck size of 17 inches or greater and women with a neck size of 16 inches or greater, especially those with high blood pressure, should be aware of their increased risk.
More information is available at http://www.snoringisntsexy.com and http://www.quietsleep.com.
Dr. Barsh