How Nasal Stents Stop Snoring: The Science Explained
Understand the mechanism, clinical evidence, and real-world results behind intranasal airway stents
A nasal stent is a soft tube that keeps your airway open from the inside while you sleep. Unlike nasal strips that stick to the outside of your nose, a stent extends deep into the nasal passage — reaching the soft palate where most airway obstruction happens. This simple difference explains why stents outperform strips in clinical studies.
- Nasal stents extend 7–9 cm into the airway, reaching the soft palate
- The nasal valve is the narrowest point — it causes over 50% of nasal airway resistance
- Internal stents increase nasal airflow by up to 25%
- Clinical studies show AHI reduction from 22.4 to 15.7 (p<0.01)
- Internal dilators outperform external strips for both snoring and sleep quality
Why the Nose Matters for Snoring
Snoring starts with restricted airflow. The nasal valve — the narrowest part of your nasal passage — causes more than half of the total resistance to breathing. When this area narrows further during sleep, air is forced through at higher speed. This creates turbulence that vibrates your soft tissues.
Even a small improvement in nasal airflow can dramatically reduce snoring. Mechanical dilation of the nasal airway increases airflow by up to 25%, which is often enough to eliminate the turbulence that causes vibration.
How a Nasal Stent Works
The Mechanism
A nasal stent works through three actions:
- Opens the nasal valve: The stent physically holds the narrowest part of the airway open, reducing resistance to airflow.
- Supports the nasal passage: The soft silicone tube prevents the nasal walls from collapsing inward during inhalation.
- Reaches the soft palate: Unlike external strips (1–2 cm effect), the stent extends 7–9 cm to reach the soft palate — the exact location where airway collapse typically occurs during sleep.
The result: air flows freely through the entire nasal passage. No turbulence, no vibration, no snoring.
Internal Stent vs. External Nasal Strips
| Feature | Internal Nasal Stent | External Nasal Strip |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Inside the nose, 7–9 cm deep | Outside, on the bridge of the nose |
| Reach | Nostril to soft palate | External nostrils only (1–2 cm) |
| Mechanism | Opens entire nasal airway from inside | Pulls nostrils open slightly from outside |
| Clinical evidence | Moderate–High (multiple studies) | Low–Moderate |
| Sleep quality impact | Significant improvement | Modest improvement |
| Snoring reduction | High (addresses root cause) | Variable (only addresses nostril opening) |
A study published in the Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology found that internal nasal dilators helped more patients and improved sleep quality better than external strips.
Clinical Evidence
AHI Reduction
Clinical studies on nasal stents show significant reduction in the Apnea-Hypopnea Index:
- REI decreased from 22.4 ± 14.1 to 15.7 ± 10.4 events/hour (p<0.01)
- This represents a 30% reduction in breathing events
Oxygen Improvement
Nasal stents also improve blood oxygen levels:
- Lowest SpO2 improved from 81.9% ± 7.5 to 86.6% ± 4.8 (p<0.01)
- This moves patients from dangerously low oxygen into a safer range
Snoring Time Reduction
Studies measuring actual snoring time showed significant reductions in both the duration and volume of snoring with nasal stent use.
Who Benefits Most from Nasal Stents?
- Nasal snorers: Those whose snoring comes from nasal obstruction or congestion
- Mild to moderate sleep apnea patients: AHI 5–29, especially nasal-origin obstruction
- Travelers: Need a portable solution that works without electricity. See travel snoring solutions.
- CPAP-intolerant patients: Those who can't tolerate masks or machines. See CPAP alternatives.
- Partners of snorers: The device is completely silent
Who Should Choose a Different Option
- Severe sleep apnea (AHI 30+): Usually needs CPAP
- Purely tongue-based obstruction: May respond better to a MAD
- Active nasal infection: Wait until it clears
The Back2Sleep Nasal Stent
The Back2Sleep nasal stent is a CE-certified Class I medical device developed over 7 years with sleep medicine specialists. Key features:
- Material: Soft, medical-grade silicone. Dermatologically tested.
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL to fit different nasal anatomies
- Lifespan: Each stent lasts about 15 days
- Insertion: Takes about 10 seconds with the included nasal lubricant
The Starter Kit (€39) includes all 4 sizes so you can find the best fit. See our size guide and first night guide.
Try Back2Sleep — Starter Kit €39Frequently Asked Questions
How does a nasal stent stop snoring?
A nasal stent is a soft tube inserted into the nostril that extends to the soft palate. It holds the nasal airway open from the inside, allowing air to flow freely. Without turbulence, the tissues don't vibrate, so snoring stops.
Are nasal stents better than nasal strips?
Clinical studies show internal nasal stents outperform external nasal strips. Stents extend 7-9 cm deep, reaching the soft palate where obstruction occurs. Strips only open the nostrils 1-2 mm from the outside.
Is it uncomfortable to sleep with a nasal stent?
Most users adapt within 3-5 nights. The initial sensation is similar to getting used to contact lenses. The soft silicone material is dermatologically tested to minimize irritation.
Can a nasal stent help with sleep apnea?
Yes. Nasal stents are CE-certified for mild to moderate sleep apnea. Clinical studies show significant AHI reduction and improved blood oxygen levels. They are not recommended as the sole treatment for severe sleep apnea.
How long does each nasal stent last?
Each Back2Sleep nasal stent lasts approximately 15 days. After that, the silicone may lose its shape and should be replaced for optimal hygiene and effectiveness.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Snoring can be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea, a serious medical condition. If you suspect sleep apnea, consult a healthcare professional. Back2Sleep is a CE-certified Class I medical device intended for the treatment of snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea.
Ready for quieter nights? Discover the Back2Sleep starter kit and find the right fit for you.
Not sure if you are at risk? Take our sleep risk screening to find out in just a few minutes.
Want to learn how it works? Explore the Back2Sleep nasal stent designed for comfortable, effective relief.
