Rhinomanometric Assessment of The Impact of High Altitude on Nasal Airway Resistance

Abstract

Aim of this study is to carry out a rhinomanometric assessment for the impact of altitude variation (1050–2215m) on nasal airflow. First of all, rhinomanometry standard values were specified in 100 healthy people (0.53 on the left; 0.55 Pa/cm³/sec on the right). 42 people were enrolled into the study. Nasal resistance was calculated for Group 1 when ascending from 1050m to 2215m and for Group 2 when descending from 2215m to 1050m. Nasal resistances and total nasal resistances were compared. Mean nasal resistances were determined as 0.54 Pa/cm³/sec on the right and 0.54 Pa/cm³/sec on the left for Group 1 and as 0.52 Pa/cm³/sec on the right and 0.59 Pa/cm³/sec on the left for Group 2. Altitude variation in Group 1 and 2 was detected to have no statistically significant effects on right and left nasal resistances. No variation in total resistance was determined either. Although ,Altitude variation from 1050 m to 2215 m or from 2215 m to 1050 m does not affect the nasal resistance in this study, due to the many factors that affect the physiology of the nose at high altitude a decisive conclusion can not be said. multi-factorial studies are needed.