If you or your partner are sleeping in separate rooms because of snoring, you’re not alone. In fact, research shows over a third of Americans opt for a “sleep divorce.” But snoring is usually a medical airway issue, not a relationship issue—and it’s almost always fixable.

At Sinus & Allergy Wellness Center Scottsdale, we use a simple at-home evaluation called “The Afrin Test” to quickly understand what’s causing the snoring.

Dr. G.’s Afrin Test 

Gather your partner and try this test out at home. Below is Dr. Gergits’ unique application of Afrin spray to see if the observed and perceived changes in nasal airway breathing are changed during sleep. (Dr. Gergits’ home screening method may help patients better understand nasal airflow changes—but this is not a diagnostic tool and should not be used to make treatment decisions without a professional evaluation.)

How to Conduct the Test

Nights 1–3: Baseline

• Snorer goes to bed first.
• Partner rates snoring using a standard snoring scale (e.g., STOP-BANG).
• Record loudness, frequency, and sleep disturbance. 

Nights 4–6: Afrin Phase

• Snorer uses Afrin exactly as directed (never longer than 3 nights).
• The partner continues scoring snoring. 

After Stopping Afrin

• The partner to note whether snoring returns to baseline. 

What the Results Mean

• Improves on Afrin?: Likely nasal obstruction (treatable).
• No improvement?: Possibly polyps, deviated septum, chronic sinus issues, or nasal valve collapse.

Important Safety Note

Do not use Afrin longer than 3 days.This test is diagnostic only, not treatment. While Afrin works extremely well, it can cause addiction.

Your First Visit: The Real “Sleep-Divorce” Solution

We encourage everyone participating in this test to make an appointment at the Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center in Scottsdale. Our team will conduct an airway evaluation, which identifies exactly where airflow is blocked using:

• Nasal endoscopy
• Sinus and septum assessment
• Turbinate evaluation
• Obstruction mapping

From there, we create a treatment plan tailored to your airway anatomy—often using minimally invasive in-office options that may provide significant, lasting relief depending on your condition.

A Quick Q&A with Dr. Gergits

Is snoring the same as sleep apnea? Not always, but it’s a major warning sign.

Does the Afrin Test cure snoring? No—it only helps identify the cause.

Does a sleep divorce mean my relationship is in trouble? Not at all. It usually just means your airway needs attention.

Ready for Peaceful Desert Nights Together Again?

Snoring doesn’t have to control your nights—or your relationship.

Schedule your Scottsdale airway evaluation at Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center today and let us get you back on track.