FAQ
A nasal dilator is a device that expands nasal passages to allow increased airflow. A high quality, well-designed nasal dilator can help to improve sleep, reduce snoring and relieve nasal congestion due to colds, allergies, or a deviated septum. The most effective nasal dilators fit inside the nose (or nostrils) and reach up into the narrowest part of the nasal passages, helping to push the nasal canals open for optimum airflow.
How does the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator work?
The unique AIRMAX® “wings” expand the narrowest parts of the nasal passage to allow increased airflow.
How is the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator different than other devices?
The AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator is different from other products commonly available in the marketplace in the following ways:
- Distinctive, patented design which goes inside the nasal passages
- Proven to improve nasal airflow in clinical studies
- Does not require ‘sticky’ tape on the outside of the nose
- Made of medical grade material
- Aerodynamic profile (provides a wing effect)
I see that the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator is available in small and medium sizes. What size is right for me?
While everyone has different sized nasal passages, the medium size fits most. If you have noticeably small nasal passages, the small size is likely the better choice.
Can my child use the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator?
The AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator is not recommended for children ages 12 and under.
How do I use the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator?
For details on how to insert and fit the device please see our AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator Instructions section on the website.
I just started using this nasal device and I’m experiencing some sensitivity in my nasal passages. Is this normal and do you have any suggestions?
Some users experience modest sensitivity to the device when first used. We encourage users to use it consistently for two weeks to get accustomed to the fit.
What type of plastic is used in the AIRMAX®?
The AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator is made with soft, odorless, medical grade plastic called Styrene-Ethylene-Butylene-Styrene (SEBS).
Is the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator made with bisphenol A (BPA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), latex or phthalates?
No. The AIRMAX® is not made with bisphenol A (BPA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), latex or phthalates.
Is it normal to remove the AIRMAX® while sleeping? Did it fall out?
It is highly unlikely that the device fell out on its own. During the “break-in” period, some users will unknowingly remove the device while sleeping. It may take some time to get used to using the AIRMAX®, but usually no more than two weeks.
Will the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator help prevent snoring?
Yes. For many people the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator has been clinically proven to help reduce snoring. In clinical tests with patients experiencing various stages of socially disruptive snoring, 75% of patients experienced significant reduction of snoring (loudness and duration).
Can I use the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator with a CPAP machine?
Yes. There should be no issues with using the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator and your CPAP machine. If you have any questions about this, we encourage you to speak with your ENT doctor.
Can the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator help with sleep apnea symptoms?
Since the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator improves nasal breathing it can assist some patients with sleep apnea or OSAS (obstructive sleep apnea syndrome). In clinical testing a portion of patients with OSAS actually experienced a reduction in snoring (loudness and duration) with the use of the AIRMAX® device. As with all specific serious medical conditions, we recommend you consult your physician for treatment.
How long will the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator last?
Due to the design and manufacture of the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator, it should last a substantial period of time if cleaned regularly and stored in a cool, dry place. For hygienic reasons, we recommend you replace your device every 60–90 days.
Why is the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator better than nasal strips?
The AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator allows for greater airflow through the nasal passages than nasal strips. Research has shown that the AIRMAX® device provides a 3 times better average aerodynamic performance than nasal strips.
Is the AIRMAX® visible during usage?
AIRMAX® is visible under the nasal septum. This is a good indication that the AIRMAX® has been properly placed inside the nose.
I have been using the AIRMAX® for a few weeks now and my nose is a bit irritated. Is that normal?
Some users with a dry nose or a deviated septum may experience irritation in their nose after a few weeks of use. This irritation can be avoided or minimized by moistening the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator with water before use.
Will the AIRMAX® change the shape of my nose?
When wearing the AIRMAX®, the narrowest part of the nasal entrance is slightly widened. However, this mechanical widening disappears when removing the AIRMAX®. The AIRMAX® will not affect the shape of your nose after you have used it.
How is the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator different from other available consumer products?
The AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator is remarkably different when compared to nasal strips. It is placed inside the nasal canal, it does not have adhesives on it, and it pushes the nasal canal open as opposed to pulling on the outside of the nose. It has been clinically tested to provide greater airflow performance than nasal strips and it is reusable – coming with a handy storage case.
When compared to other devices that are designed to be placed inside the nasal passages, the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator is noteworthy because it reaches into the narrowest part of the nasal passages – helping to push the nasal canal open for improved airflow. Most other devices of this type are typically placed only in the lowest part of the nasal passage.
What is the difference between the Airmax® for better breathing and the Airmax® for better sleep?
They are the same great product, marketed to two different markets/users. The packaging and marketing are the only difference.
How do I clean the the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator?
The AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator can be cleaned with water and mild soap. Each AIRMAX® device should only be used by one person to prevent transfer of diseases like the common cold.
Is the AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator soft or rigid?
The AIRMAX® Nasal Dilator is made of medical grade plastic. It’s flexible for comfort and fit, yet semi-rigid (similar to the cartilage in your ears or nose) so it can push open and expand the nasal passages to help increase nasal airflow and improve breathing.