A guide to practical aspects of measurement of human nasal airflow by rhinomanometry

Abstract

The guide is intended for all those interested in measuring human nasal airflow by rhinomanometry, either for clinical or research purposes. The guide is written in non-technical language so that it may be understood by nursing and support staff who may need to make measurements using rhinomanometry. It is not a systematic review of the literature but a personal view based on over 40 years experience of measuring nasal airflow. The guide introduces the basic principles of nasal airflow and pressure and their measurement. The following topics are discussed: anterior and posterior rhinomanometry and their relative problems and benefits, control of errors in measurement, standard operating procedures, calibration of equipment, measurement of the totally obstructed nose, reproducibility and sensitivity of rhinomanometry, hygiene, factors influencing nasal airflow such as rest and exercise, alcohol, medicines, temperature and humidity and diseases such as common cold and allergy.