Apparatus and methods for disrupting nasal airflow

Abstract

Described herein is a nasal airflow disruption apparatus, and method of use, comprising an elongate strip of flexible material having a central area extending between two distal ends. The central area comprises a narrow portion being defined by an elongate recess. The apparatus is configured such that when the strip is positioned across the bottom of a nose and the distal ends are secured to either side of the nose, the central area partially covers the nostrils and creates first and second airflow zones in each nostril. The first airflow zone is distal to the tip of the nose, allows unencumbered airflow into an out of the nostril and is created by the elongate recess. The second airflow zone is proximal to the tip of the nose, disrupts airflow into and out of the nostril and is covered by the narrow portion.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DISRUPTING NASAL AIRFLOWCROSS-REFERENCE TO PREVIOUS APPLICATON

[0001] This application claims priority from United States provisional patent application 63 / 701 ,678 filed on October 1 , 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of medical technologies. In particular, various embodiments are described herein that generally relate to apparatus and methods for disrupting nasal airflow.INTRODUCTION

[0003] The following paragraphs are provided by way of background to the present disclosure. They are not, however, an admission that anything discussed therein is prior art or part of the knowledge of persons skilled in the art.

[0004] Rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the nasal passages, often characterized by symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itching. This condition can be triggered by a variety of factors, including allergies, infections, or irritants. Allergic rhinitis, for instance, occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Non-allergic rhinitis, on the other hand, may be caused by irritants such as smoke or strong odors, or can result from infections like the common cold or sinusitis.

[0005] Accordingly, inhaled irritants can cause discomfort to a person when they contact the nasal cavity. The nasal cavity is structured such that inhaled air is turbulated to aid the sense of smell. This turbulation also ensures that irritants are brought to the olfactory receptors and the olfactory bulb.

[0006] Devices sometimes referred to as nasal strips have been developed in order to reduce exposure of the mucus membrane to irritants. Such known nasal strips however employ various methods of presenting irritants from entering the nasal cavity. Such methods include attempts to filter out inhaled air and / or shutting the nostril openings to prevent inhalation of foreign debris.- 1 -8614651

[0007] A significant disadvantage of known nasal strips is the tradeoff between filtering efficiency (i.e. , the ability of the strip to trap foreign debris) and breathability (i.e., the ability of the nasal strip to allow air and moisture to pass through it). The more efficient a nasal strip acts as a filter, the less breathable it is. Lack of breathability often results in discomfort and can, ultimately, lead to discontinued use of the nasal strip.

[0008] There is a therefore a clear need for apparatus and methods for disrupting nasal airflow that address the challenges and / or shortcomings described above.SUMMARY

[0009] Various embodiments of a nasal strip for disrupting airflow to the upper nasal cavity are provided according to the teachings herein.

[0010] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is disclosed a nasal airflow disruption apparatus comprising an elongate strip of flexible material having a central area extending between two distal ends. The central area comprises a narrow portion being defined by an elongate recess. The apparatus is configured such that when the strip is positioned across the bottom of a nose and the distal ends are secured to either side of the nose, the central area partially covers the nostrils and creates first and second airflow zones in each nostril. The first airflow zone is distal to the tip of the nose, allows unencumbered airflow into and out of the nostril and is created by the elongate recess. The second airflow zone is proximal to the tip of the nose, disrupts airflow into and out of the nostril and is covered by the narrow portion.

[0011] In some examples, the narrow portion comprises at least one opening suitable for disrupting airflow.

[0012] In some examples, the at least one opening is located along an interface between the narrow portion and the elongate recess.

[0013] In some examples, the narrow portion comprises ribs extending into the elongate recess.

[0014] In some examples, the distal ends comprise an adhesive for securing the strip to either side of the nose.

[0015] In some examples, the apparatus further comprises aligning indicia operable to assist a user in securing the apparatus to the nose.- 2 -8614651

[0016] In some examples, the aligning indicia are located in the center of the narrow portion and comprise a first indicium operable to be placed on the philtrum and a second indicium operable to be placed on the columella.

[0017] In some examples, the aligning indicia are of different shapes.

[0018] In some examples, the aligning indicia comprise perforations in the strip.

[0019] In some examples, the narrow portion further comprises a cutout allowing the strip to be wrapped around the bottom of a nose without creasing.

[0020] In some examples, the strip is made of a hypoallergenic vinyl sheets.

[0021] In some examples, the elongate recess is generally “U” shaped and disposed around a projection extending from the narrow portion midway between the two distal ends.

[0022] In some examples, the second indicium is located on the projection.

[0023] In some examples, the elongate recess is generally “V” and causes the narrow portion to be narrower towards the midway between the two distal ends.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is disclosed a method of applying the nasal airflow disruption apparatus to the nose of a wearer. The method comprises positioning the first indicium on the philtrum of the userand positioning the second indicium on the columella of the nose. The method also comprises wrapping the apparatus around the bottom of the nose and securing the two distal ends to either side of the nose.

[0025] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, there is disclosed a kit comprising the above nasal airflow disruption apparatus and written instructions for carrying out the above method.

[0026] Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken together with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the application, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the application will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.DRAWINGS- 3 -8614651

[0027] For a better understanding of the various embodiments described herein, and to show more clearly how these various embodiments may be carried into effect, reference will be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show at least one example embodiment, and which are now described. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings described herein. In the drawings:

[0028] FIGURE 1A is an isometric view of a device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIGURE 1 B is a front view of the device shown in FIGURE 1 A;

[0030] FIGURE 2 is an in-use view of the device shown in FIGURE 1 A;

[0031] FIGURE 3 is a view of a user’s nose showing the intended position of the positioning indicia of the device shown in FIGURE 1 A;

[0032] FIGURE 4 is another in-use view of the device shown in FIGURE 1 A;

[0033] FIGURE 5A is a representation of undisrupted airflow within a nasal cavity;

[0034] FIGURE 5B is a representation of airflow within a nasal cavity that has been disrupted by a device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIGURE 6A is an isometric view of a device in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIGURE 6B is a front view of the device shown in FIGURE 6A; and

[0037] FIGURE 7 is a front view of a device in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Further aspects and features of the example embodiments described herein will appearfrom the following description taken together with the accompanying drawings.DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

[0039] Various embodiments in accordance with the teachings herein will be described below to provide an example of at least one embodiment of the claimed subject matter. No embodiment described herein limits any claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to devices, systems, or methods having all of the features of any one of the devices or methods described below or to features common to multiple or all of the devices or methods described herein. It is possible that there may be a device or method described herein that is not an embodiment of any claimed subject matter.- 4 -8614651

[0040] Any subject matter that is described herein that is not claimed in this document may be the subject matter of another protective instrument, for example, a continuing patent application, and the applicants, inventors, or owners do not intend to abandon, disclaim, or dedicate to the public any such subject matter by its disclosure in this document.

[0041] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. Also, the description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0042] It should be noted that, as used herein, the wording “and / or” is intended to represent an inclusive-or. That is, “X and / or Y” is intended to mean X or Y or both, for example. As a further example, “X, Y, and / or Z” is intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.

[0043] It should also be noted that terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms of degree may also be construed as including a deviation of the modified term, such as by 1 %, 2%, 5%, or 10%, for example, if this deviation does not negate the meaning of the term it modifies.

[0044] As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be “coupled”, “connected”, “attached”, “joined”, “affixed”, or “fastened” where the parts are joined or operate together either directly or indirectly (i.e., through one or more intermediate parts), so long as a link occurs. As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be “directly coupled”, “directly connected”, “directly attached”, “directly joined”, “directly affixed”, or “directly fastened” where the parts are connected in physical contact with each other. As used herein, two or more parts are said to be “rigidly coupled”, “rigidly connected”, “rigidly attached”, “rigidly joined”, “rigidly affixed”, or “rigidly fastened” where- 5 -8614651the parts are coupled so as to move as one while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. None of the terms “coupled”, “connected”, “attached”, “joined”, “affixed”, and “fastened” distinguish the manner in which two or more parts are joined together.

[0045] Further, although method steps may be described (in the disclosure and / or in the claims) in a sequential order, such methods may be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of methods described herein may be performed in any order that is practical. Further, some steps may be performed simultaneously.

[0046] Some elements herein may be identified by a part number, which is composed of a base number followed by an alphabetical or numerical suffix (e.g., 184A, or 184i). Multiple elements herein may be identified by part numbers that share a base number in common and that differ by their suffixes (e.g., 184i, 1842, and 184s). All elements with a common base number may be referred to collectively or generically using the base number without a suffix (e.g., 184).

[0047] In accordance with the teachings herein, there are provided various embodiments for a nasal strip for disrupting airflow to the upper nasal cavity, while allowing undisrupted airflow towards the lower nasal cavity.

[0048] As shown in FIGURES 1A and 1 B, the nasal airflow disruption device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure generally comprises a strip 10 comprised of a flexible material. The strip 10 has an inner surface 11 , an outer surface 17, and a perimeter edge 12 extending between the inner surface 11 and the outer surface 17. The perimeter edge 12 has a front edge 13, a rear edge 16, a first lateral edge 14, and a second lateral edge 15.

[0049] An adhesive is positioned on and covers at least part of the inner surface 11 . The adhesive is configured to removably secure the inner surface 11 to an underside of a user’s nose such that nostrils of the user are partially covered by part of the strip 10. The adhesive may be any suitable non-irritating medical adhesive, such as those used in medical tapes and dressings. The flexible material used to fabricate the strip 10 may be comprised of natural and / or synthetic fibers woven together, non-woven fabrics, elastomeric materials, and / or any other suitable materials. In a non-limiting example, the - 6 -8614651flexible material may be any suitable hypoallergenic, medical grade, transparent or nontransparent adhesive vinyl sheets, such as those used in medical bandages and dressings.

[0050] In some embodiments, strip 10 comprises a plurality of openings 18 which are suitable for disrupting airflow when the strip 10 is secured to the user’s nose, as shown in FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 4. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, openings 18 may be of any suitable shape or size, including slits, squares, triangles, etc., each of varying size. In some embodiments, rear edge 16 of strip 10 further include projections (or ribs) which are also suitable for disrupting airflow when the strip 10 is secured to the user’s nose, as shown in FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 4.

[0051] In some embodiments, strip 10 comprise positioning indicia 19, 20 and 21 which are operable to help a user secure the strip 10 onto a nose, as shown in FIGURE 2, FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 4. In some embodiments positioning indicia 19, 20 and 21 comprise centering indicia 21 to help a user center strip 10 onto a nose. In some embodiments, centering indicia 21 may comprise portion cutout from front edge 13, the center of which corresponds to the approximate center of strip 10. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, other indicia may be used to aide a user in centering strip 10 on a nose.

[0052] In some embodiments positioning indicia 19, 20 and 21 may also or instead comprise aligning indicia 19, 20 to help a user position strip 10 onto a nose such that only a portion of the nose’s nostrils are covered by strip 10. In some embodiments, aligning indicia 19, 20 may comprise perforations 19 and 20. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, perforations 19 and 20 may be of any suitable shape or size, including slits, squares, triangles, etc., each of varying size. Moreover, indicia 19, 20 and 21 may additionally or alternatively comprise shapes or symbols printed on the strip, or any other suitable marking. In some examples, a user may be instructed to position perforation 20 at position 20’ on FIGURE 3, where position 20’ may be on a portion of the columella 33 of the wearer proximate to the wearer’s philtrum 34 (also known as the medial cleft). In some examples, a user may also be instructed to position perforation 19 at position 19’ on FIGURE 3, where position 19’ may be on a portion of the philtrum 34 of the wearer proximate the wearer’s columella 33.- 7 -8614651

[0053] In some embodiments, a user may be provided with a kit which comprises the strip and instructions for carrying out the above securing method.

[0054] Accordingly, positioning indicia 19, 20 and 21 effectively allow proper positioning on the strip on a wearer’s nose, in a two-dimensional plane. When a user positions perforation 20 at position 20’ on FIGURE 3, and positions perforation 19 at position 19’ on FIGURE 3, the strip is positioned correctly in a first dimension, e.g., in the center of the wearer’s nose, as well as in a second dimension, e.g., across only a portion of the wearer’s nostrils, thereby allowing recess C to create an unencumbered airflow zones 70 (described in more detail elsewhere herein) in each nostril. In other words, positioning indicia 19 and 20, as well as positioning indicia 89 and 91 (described in more detail elsewhere herein), allow for the correct positioning of the strip and recesses C across a wearer’s nose. This is an important feature of the positioning indicia 19 and 20, as well as positioning indicia 89 and 91 , especially considering the wide variety of shapes and sizes of the human nose. Indicia 19, 20, 89 and 91 therefor allow each strip to achieve optimal impact on every wearer, regardless of the size and shape of their nose. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, indicia 19, 20, 89 and 91 may comprise perforations of any suitable shape or size, including slits, squares, triangles, etc., each of varying size. Moreover, indicia 19, 20, 89 and 91 may additionally or alternatively comprise shapes or symbols printed on the strip, or any other suitable marking.

[0055] Another advantage of positioning indicia 21 and 91 is that, because they are cut outs, the allow the strip to be wrapped around the bottom of a wearer’s nose (as shown in FIGs. 2 and 4) without the strip creasing or buckling.

[0056] As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, other indicia may be used to aide a user in aligning strip 10 with a wearer’s nose such that strip 10 only covers a portion of the wearer’s nostrils.

[0057] Strip 10 also comprises a recesses portion C, which is defines rear edge 16, and makes lateral edges 14 and 15 wider than the central portion of strip 10. This recessed section has the dual function of creating the unencumbered airflow zones 70 (described in more detail elsewhere herein) and producing enough tension across rear edge 16 when strip is secured to a wearer’s nose, as shown on FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 4. Ensuring that enough tension exists across rear edge 16 when strip is secured to a wearer’s nose is essential for effectively creating a division between unencumbered- 8 -8614651airflow zones 70 and disrupted airflow zones 71. This effective creation of a division impacts the precision with which airflow can be disrupted within the nasal cavity and thus optimally disrupts airflow to the upper nasal cavity, while allow uncambered airflow through the lower nasal cavity.

[0058] Accordingly, recesses C shown in FIGs. 1 B, 6B and 7 are important for defining unencumbered airflow zones 70 while optimally disrupting airflow to the upper nasal cavity, while allowing uncambered airflow through the lower nasal cavity.

[0059] FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 4 show in-use views of the device shown in FIGURE 1A and FIGUER 1 B. In use, the strip 10 may be removably secured to the underside 30 of a wearer’s nose 32 such that the nostrils 35 of the nose 32 are partially covered. A portion of the inner surface 11 is in contact with a portion of the underside 30 of the wearer’s nose 32 with the rear edge 16 positioned at a distance to the wearer’s philtrum 34 such that an unencumbered airflow zone 70 is created in each nostril, while a disrupted airflow zone 71 is created in each nostril, the disrupted airflow zone being partially obstructed by the surface of the strip containing openings 18.

[0060] The first lateral edge 14 and the second lateral edge 15 are each removably attached to an adjacent one of a pair of outer surfaces 36 of each nostril 35. After use, the strip 10 may be removed and discarded.

[0061] FIGURES 5A and 5B are a representation of airflow within a nasal cavity. In particular, FIGURE 5A is a representation of uninterrupted airflow within a nasal cavity and FIGURE 5B is a representation of airflow within a nasal cavity that has been disrupted by a device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIGURE 5A is a representation of the airflow within a nasal cavity 58 during inhalation. Streams of air 51 , 52, 53 and 54 progress unimpeded from the nostril 35, into the nasal cavity and through inferior, middle and superior turbinates 56. A turbinate, also known as a nasal concha, is a long, narrow, and curled bone shelf that protrudes into the nasal cavity. These structures are covered by mucous membranes and help warm, humidify, and filter the air as it passes through the nose.

[0063] Noses have three different levels of airflow. Closer to the tip of the nose, the first level of airflow is significantly turbulated and directed to the upper nasal cavity, while the second level is less turbulated and directed to the medial nasal cavity, and the third level of airflow closest to the philtrum 34 is substantially laminar in nature and directed to - 9 -8614651the lower nasal cavity. The devices described herein are designed to substantially stop the first level of airflow, further turbulate the second level of airflow, and allow the third level of airflow to flow without disruption.

[0064] FIGURE 5B shows is a representation of airflow within a nasal cavity that has been disrupted by a device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIGURE 5B, strip 10, when secured to the nose as disclosed in more detail elsewhere herein, creates disrupted airflow zone 71 which disrupts airflow streams 53’ and 54’, which in turn removes the turbulent currents of airflow at the tip of the nasal cavity 58. This creates a zone 57 of “stalled air” around superior turbinates 56. The creation of zone 57 leads to hyper-saturation of the upper nasal cavity, effectively humidifying the olfactory region of the nasal cavity 58.

[0065] Humidifying the nasal cavity can help reduce the likelihood of getting a cold or alleviate the symptoms of one. For example, studies show that a humid nasal cavity lining can help the mucous membranes be more effective at secreting defensive vesicles that work by trapping and filtering out viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. Humidifying also helps keep the nasal passages moist, which improves the ability to dilute, trap and remove harmful particles. A humid environment also allows the tiny hair-like structures in the nose (cilia) to function better, helping to clear out germs before they reach the respiratory tract. Dry air can also irritate the nasal passages, leading to discomfort, congestion, and a higher risk of infection. Keeping the air humidified may reduce irritation and help the nose function more effectively.

[0066] Because however unencumbered zone 70 does not disrupt airflow into the nasal cavity 58, a wearer of the nasal strip can continue to enjoy substantially unrestricted breathing. As a result, the strip 10, 80 and 100 is significantly more comfortable to wear compared to other devices that fully cover the nose or block the nostrils completely.

[0067] FIGURE 6A is an isometric view of a device in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure and FIGURE 6B is a front view of the device shown in FIGURE 6A. As shown in FIGURES 6A and 6B, the nasal airflow disruption device in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure generally comprises a strip 80 comprised of a flexible material. The strip 80 has an inner surface 81 , an outer surface 87, and a perimeter edge 82 extending between the inner surface 81 and the- 10 -8614651outer surface 87. The perimeter edge 82 has a front edge 83, a rear edge 86, a first lateral edge 84, and a second lateral edge 85.

[0068] An adhesive is positioned on and covers at least part of the inner surface 81 . The adhesive is configured to removably secure the inner surface 81 to an underside of a user’s nose such that nostrils of the user are partially covered by part of the strip 80. The adhesive may be any suitable non-irritating medical adhesive, such as those used in medical tapes and dressings. The flexible material used to fabricate the strip 80 may be comprised of natural and / or synthetic fibers woven together, non-woven fabrics, elastomeric materials, and / or any other suitable materials. In a non-limiting example, the flexible material may be any suitable hypoallergenic, medical grade, transparent or nontransparent adhesive vinyl sheets, such as those used in medical bandages and dressings.

[0069] In some embodiments, strip 80 comprises a plurality of openings 88 which are suitable for disrupting airflow when the strip 80 is secured to the user’s nose, as shown in FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 4. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, openings 88 may be of any suitable shape or size, including slits, squares, triangles, etc., each of varying size.

[0070] In some embodiments, strip 80 comprise positioning indicia 89, 90 and 91 which are operable to help a user secure the strip 80 onto a nose, as shown in FIGURE2, FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 4. In some embodiments, positioning indicia 89, 90 and 91 comprise centering indicia 91 to help a user center strip 80 onto a nose. In some embodiments, centering indicia 91 may comprise a cutout from front edge 83, the center of which corresponds to the approximate center of strip 80. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, other indicia may be used to aide a user in centering strip 80 on a nose.

[0071] In some embodiments positioning indicia 89, 90 and 91 may also or instead comprise aligning indicia 89, 90 to help a user position strip 80 onto a nose such that only a portion of the nose’s nostrils are covered by strip 80. In some embodiments, aligning indicia 89, 90 may comprise circular perforation 19 and elongate perforation 20. In some examples, a user may be instructed to position perforation 90 at position 20’ on FIGURE3, where position 20’ may be on a portion of the columella 33 of the wearer proximate to the wearer’s philtrum 34 (also known as the medial cleft). In some examples, a user may also be instructed to position perforation 89 at position 19’ on FIGURE 3, where position- 11 -861465119’ may be on a portion of the philtrum 34 of the wearer proximate the wearer’s columella 33. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, other indicia may be used to aide a user in aligning strip 80 with a wearer’s nose such that strip 10 only covers a portion of the wearer’s nostrils.

[0072] FIGURE 7 is a front view of a device in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIGURE 7, the nasal airflow disruption device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure generally comprises a strip 110 comprised of a flexible material. The strip 110 has an inner surface 111 , an outer surface (not shown), and a perimeter edge 112 extending between the inner surface 111 and the outer surface. The perimeter edge 112 has a front edge 113, a rear edge 116, a first lateral edge 114, and a second lateral edge 115.

[0073] An adhesive is positioned on and covers at least part of the inner surface 111. The adhesive is configured to removably secure the inner surface 111 to an underside of a user’s nose such that nostrils of the user are partially covered by part of the strip 110. The adhesive may be any suitable non-irritating medical adhesive, such as those used in medical tapes and dressings. The flexible material used to fabricate the strip 110 may be comprised of natural and / or synthetic fibers woven together, non-woven fabrics, elastomeric materials, and / or any other suitable materials. In a non-limiting example, the flexible material may be any suitable hypoallergenic, medical grade, transparent or non-transparent adhesive vinyl sheets, such as those used in medical bandages and dressings.

[0074] In some embodiments, strip 110 comprises a plurality of openings 118 which are suitable for disrupting airflow when the strip 110 is secured to the user’s nose, as shown in FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 4. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, openings 118 may be of any suitable shape or size, including slits, squares, triangles, etc., each of varying size.

[0075] In some embodiments, strip 110 comprise positioning indicia 121 which is operable to help a user secure the strip 110 onto a nose, as shown in FIGURE 2, FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 4. In some embodiments positioning indicia 121 comprise centering indicia 121 to help a user center strip 10 onto a nose. In some embodiments, centering indicia 21 may comprise portion cutout from front edge 13, the center of which corresponds to the approximate center of strip 110. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, other- 12 -8614651indicia may be used to aide a user in centering strip 110 on a nose. As will be appreciated by the skilled reader, other indicia may be used to aide a user in aligning strip 110 with a wearer’s nose such that strip 10 only covers a portion of the wearer’s nostrils.

[0076] With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of an embodiment enabled by the disclosure, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0077] While the applicant’s teachings described herein are in conjunction with various embodiments for illustrative purposes, it is not intended that the applicant’s teachings be limited to such embodiments as the embodiments described herein are intended to be examples. On the contrary, the applicant’s teachings described and illustrated herein encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, without departing from the embodiments described herein, the general scope of which is defined in the appended claims.- 13 -8614651

Claims

CLAIMS1. A nasal airflow disruption apparatus comprising an elongate strip of flexible material having a central area extending between two distal ends, the central area comprising a narrow portion being defined by an elongate recess, the apparatus being configured such that when the strip is positioned across the bottom of a nose and the distal ends are secured to either side of the nose, the central area partially covers the nostrils and creates first and second airflow zones in each nostril, the first airflow zone being distal to the tip of the nose, allowing unencumbered airflow into and out of the nostril and being created by the elongate recess, and the second airflow zone being proximal to the tip of the nose, disrupting airflow into and out of the nostril and being covered by the narrow portion.

2. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the narrow portion comprises at least one opening suitable for disrupting airflow.

3. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of claim 2, wherein the at least one opening is located along an interface between the narrow portion and the elongate recess.

4. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the narrow portion comprises ribs extending into the elongate recess.

5. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the distal ends comprise an adhesive for securing the strip to either side of the nose.- 14 -86146516. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the apparatus further comprises aligning indicia operable to assist a user in securing the apparatus to the nose.

7. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the aligning indicia are located in the center of the narrow portion and comprise a first indicium operable to be placed on the philtrum and a second indicium operable to be placed on the columella.

8. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of claim 7, wherein the aligning indicia are of different shapes.

9. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the aligning indicia comprise perforations in the strip.

10. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the narrow portion further comprises a cutout allowing the strip to be wrapped around the bottom of a nose without creasing.11 . The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the strip is made of a hypoallergenic vinyl sheets.

12. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the elongate recess is generally “U” shaped and disposed around a projection extending from the narrow portion midway between the two distal ends.- 15 -861465113. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of claim 12, when dependent on claim 7, wherein the second indicium is located on the projection.

14. The nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the elongate recess is generally “V” and causes the narrow portion to be narrower towards the midway between the two distal ends.

15. A method of applying the nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 7 to 14 to the nose of a wearer, the method comprising positioning the first indicium on the philtrum of the user; positioning the second indicium on the columella of the nose; wrapping the apparatus around the bottom of the nose; and securing the two distal ends to either side of the nose.

16. A kit comprising: a nasal airflow disruption apparatus of any one of claims 7 to 14; and written instructions for carrying out the method of claim 15.- 16 -8614651

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