Can a Patient Using CPAP Use Nasal Strips?
Yes, a patient using CPAP can use nasal strips, and they may help address nasal congestion—one of the most common complaints during CPAP therapy—though guidelines do not specifically address this adjunctive measure.
Understanding the Nasal Congestion Problem with CPAP
- Nasal dryness and congestion are among the most frequently reported complaints by CPAP users, affecting the majority of patients 1
- Objective measurements demonstrate that nasal congestion significantly increases during the first month of CPAP use, with minimum cross-sectional nasal area decreasing compared to baseline values 2
- This early nasal congestion typically resolves over time with continued regular CPAP use, supporting the importance of managing nasal symptoms during the initial adaptation period 2
Guideline-Recommended Approaches for Nasal Problems
The established management strategies for nasal obstruction during CPAP therapy include:
- Heated humidification should be available and added when patients complain of significant oral or nasal dryness, as this is a standard recommendation to improve CPAP utilization 3
- Nasal steroids are recommended by guidelines for managing nasal obstruction in CPAP users 4
- Multiple interface options (nasal masks, nasal pillows, oronasal masks) should be available if patients encounter nasal congestion problems during therapy 3
Why Nasal Strips Are Not Contraindicated
- Guidelines emphasize proper mask fitting and comfort as critical factors for CPAP adherence, but they do not prohibit adjunctive measures like nasal strips 3, 5
- The primary concern with CPAP interfaces is achieving an adequate seal to prevent air leaks while maximizing patient comfort 5, 6
- Nasal strips work externally on the nasal valve area and would not interfere with the seal of nasal masks or nasal pillows, which sit over the nostrils rather than on the nasal bridge
Practical Considerations
Interface selection matters: Nasal masks are preferred over oronasal masks for most patients, as they are better tolerated, require lower pressures, and result in better sleep quality and compliance 5, 6. If a patient is considering nasal strips, they should ideally be using a nasal interface rather than a full-face mask.
Common pitfall to avoid: Interface-related problems are the most frequent reason for CPAP intolerance or failure 4. Before adding nasal strips, ensure the patient has been properly fitted with the appropriate mask type and that heated humidification has been tried, as these are evidence-based interventions 3.
Timing consideration: Since nasal congestion from CPAP typically improves after the first month of regular use 2, nasal strips might be most helpful as a temporary measure during the initial adaptation period.
Bottom Line
While nasal strips are not mentioned in CPAP guidelines, they are not contraindicated and may provide symptomatic relief for nasal congestion. However, prioritize the guideline-recommended interventions first: heated humidification 3, nasal steroids 4, and proper mask fitting 3, 5. Nasal strips can be used as an adjunctive measure if these primary interventions are insufficient, particularly during the challenging first month of therapy when nasal congestion peaks 2.